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VUDIMEER, THE NIHILIST
OR
THE CZAR'S SPY,
A STORY OF THE RUSSIA OF TO-DAY
MAJOR ALFRED ROCHEFORT.
TORONTO: T. Ross Robertson, Corner King and Bay Streets. i88t. ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST;
THE CZAR'S SPY.
BY MAJOR ALFRED ROCHEFORT. ^ I. CHAPTER the chimes ; and from the Winter Palace the soothing cadences of stringed N THE PALACE, instruments, attuned to dancing measures. January ist, 1878. The short winter days Even those out of pleasure did not loiter seemed determined that the elements should stride told : but the fur cap drawn low on not interfere with their enjoyment. The his face, and the fur collar meeting it, hid frozen Neva was covered with skaters, and every feature but his sharp, bright eyes. lit up by countless bonfires and myriad The dress was unmistakably that of a noble, lamps. Fur-lined sleighs, filled with happy and the bearing was unquestionably that of people, flew along the streets to the music a soldier. Glancing neither to the right nor of their own bells. Every lamp was lit, and left, he made his way from the Troitskoi it looked as if every house were illuminated; Bridge to the illuminated palace. even the watchmen, on the towers and As he entered the north gate the sentinels in church steeples, made fiery circles with came to a salute, which he acknowledged by their blazing torches. The five thousand mechanically touching his cap. Avoiding windows in the Winter Palace seemed the groups of officers, and the light-flooded, aflame with colored lights that fell with open doors of the quarters of the Guards, kaleidoscopic patterns on the surrounding he crossed the square and entered that part snow. The great quadrangular square of of the Hermitage occupied by the Chapel of the palace was filled with thousands of men Peter the Great. A dim religious light' and officers in the brilliant uniforms of the was reflected from the pillars of colored Guards. Through the massive gates squa- marble and verdant malachite, and lit up drons of mounted gens-d'armes were com- the tattered battle flags, wrested from Rus- ing in from their posts, or marching out, sia's foes by her redoubtable warriors. French with a great jingling of arms, to relieve their eagles, dimmed by six decades of rust and comrades on patrol. captivity, pashas' horse tails, the guidons of That it was a night of festivities, even the Turkey's sleeping legions, Circassian shields, beggars, cruching under shelters from the the keys of fortresses that had yielded to biting wind, knew full well. From the Slavic prowess the batons of leaders cap- churches' came the pealing of organs ; from tured in battle, and the rusting swords of the Admirably and the Hermitage the rhyth- defeated but historic foeman, met the eye mic din of brass bands ; from the steeples on every side, and gave the chapel the ap- : VLADIMEER THE NIHILIST. pearance of an arsenal or military museum. a trophical warmth. Dark as was the The man removed his cap and turned wintry sky, here a soft, mellow light flooded dowu the collar of his fur cloak, thus bring- every niche. Liie-sized figures of mediaeval ing to view by the light of the lamp under warriors, in silver and bronze, lined the which he stood, a well-shaped head covered walls on either hand, their drawn swords with nut-brown hair, and the handsome, tipped with flame, and their polished shields, aristocratic face of a man of five-and-twenty. held high above the head, answering for re- He took a position at the entrance to one of flectors. the covered galleries that connects the Her- Soft carpets and softer rugs deadened the mitage with the Winter Palace. fall of the feet ; there was an odor of flowers He was evidently expecting some one, for in the air ; and Irom the distance came the he stood in an attentive attitude, aud kept faint, delicious ripple of music. The jingling his dark eyes fastened on the further end of of the count's trailing sword smote the ear the colonnade. He had been there about of the prince as harsh and out of place at ten minutes, and began to show his impa- this time, though even in the cradle the tience by bitting his mustache, when hearing sound of spurs and arms had been his a step behind him, he instinctively laid his lullaby. right hand on his left hip, where the hilt of By a narrow winding stairs the count led his sword usually met his grasp, but he had the way to an upper hall, the sky-blue ceiling no sign of arms now. lit by blazing stars, and the wall hung with He turned and saw before him a short, pictures that had made the name of their stout man, with very light hair and eyes, painters immortal. and wearing the resplendent uniform of aid- At the further end, and to the right of this de-camp to the Czar. hall, Count Kiseleff opened the door, and The aid-de-camp saluted and asked : conduted the prince into a suit of magnifi- ' Have I the honor to address Prince Gal- cent apartments, the furniture of which litzin of Novgorod ?' showed they were designed for private use. ' That is my name,' replied the gentleman ' Be pleased to remain here, and I will addressed. announce to his excellency, Prince Gortscha- I am Count Kiseleff, aid to his Majesty koff, your arrival.' the Czar.' The count waved his hand, and without The young men shook hands, and Count stopping went into another apartment. Kiseleff continued : Before the door of the room by which the * I come from Prince Gortschakoff.' count vanished a tall soldier stood, with a ?' ' He told you, you would meet me here drawn sword at the position known to * He did,' replied the count, * and bade me military men as a ' carry ;' and but for the escort you at once to his presence." winking of his eyes he might have passed Count Kiseleff was about to lead the way for a life-like figure that should have been when the prince stopped him with a re- with the bronze soldiers in the lower hall. straining gesture and the question : In a few minutes the count returned, and ?' ' Is General Gortschakoff with the Czar said • He is in attendance, and now awaiting His Excellency awaits you.' an audience,' replied the count. The prince followed him into the next ' The general's message being peremptory, apartment, and was brought face to face I hastened hither without making any with a long, thin, sharp-faced man, whose change in my toilet. I am in undress.' gray hair, shriveled hands, and wrinkled As the prince spoke he threw open his face bespoke great age. He wore the court sable outer garment, and displayed his costume of his rank, and looked like an splendid figure in the close-fitting undress of animated mummy in masquerade. This was a colonel of artillery. Prince Gortschakoff,the premier of Nicholas, • Ah !' laughed the count, ' General Gort- and the giant subject in whose shadow the schakoff will prefer that you answer with throne of Alexander was shrouded. the promptness of a soldier, rather than ' I come in obedience to your excellency's appear later in the garb of a courtier. The order,' said Prince Gallitzin, when the count time has come when our imperial master had announced him, and the old man, with- needs men, not array. Be pleased to follow out rising, looked up from the papers he was me.' examining. Count Kiseleff bowed again, from his hips At a signal from General Gortschakoff, up, and with a very stately bearing for one Count Kiseleff withdrew. so short of stature, he led the way down the • I have much of import to say. Pray be long gallery and into a deserted but brilliant- seated.' The general waved a shriveled ly illuminated hall of the Winter Palace. hand, and the prince sat down. Cold as it was outside, here the air was of ' Our imperial master has been pleased to : ; VLADIMEER THE NIHILIST. ' notice your many gallant deeds in the Bal- Russian characters : Apartments to Let by kan passes and beyond,' said the general. Week or month. There are other houses of * It has always been my desire to permit a similar character on either side of the the approval of my imperial master, and to street, and all have the appearance of having lend me every effort for the honor and seen better days, and of having shrunk integrity of all the Russias,' replied the under the combined influence of bitter cold prince. and biting poverity. All these houses ap- And,' continued the general, as if he had pear to have sunk below that state of pov- not heard the interruption, ' / have watched erty know as ' genteel,' for there is no at- your course with delight; for though your tempt to conceal the spectre of Want that long absence from Russia has prevented my seems to have made his headquarters in this knowing you as I should desire, your father, street. On the very top floor of the very I was proud to call a friend, and your grand- high, thin house referred to, and in the cor- father, and I wen-, at college together, and ner most exposed to the fury of the north, wore our first epaulets in the wars with Cir- wind, the family of Madam Ruloff, wife of cassia. You hold a responsible position the exciled general of that name, lived. In the glory of two great names hangs on your the principal apartment, which was at once acts.' sitting-room and kitchen, a lard lamp burn- ' As yet,' said the prince, proudly, ' no act ed on a pine table, and a handful of charcoal of mine has tended to dim the lustre of their burned in the little white stove. honoured names.' At the table Madam Ruloff and her beau- « Spoken like a true Gallitzin !' The old tiful daughter, Elizabeth, sat sewing, as if man drew his chair nearer, and after an more lard from the lamp and more charcoal asthmatic fit of coughing, went on in a more for the stove depended on their efforts. At ' confidental tone : It is not only in the field a little window that comanded a view of the that you must continue the course so bril- merry skaters on the river, and the thou- liantly begun, but also in counselling and sands of warm lights in the imperial residence, upholding the empire, which is now threat- a >oung man of twenty two or three stood ened by those fanatics the Nihilists, who looking out at the city, but seeing nothing. aim to reduce to chaos the structure cry- He was of medium height, but so finely pro- stalized by centuries of honored custom and portioned as to seem smaller. His yellow •wise laws. General Gallitzin, you must hair was cut after the military style, and henceforth be nearer the person of our im- the carriage of the head and the square impenal master.' shoulders bespoke a man trained physically. I stand ready to obey ; but your excel- at least, for war. His close fitting dress was lency mistakes ; I am not a general,' said the that of a student professor of the School of prince. Mines, but it had seen better days. Turning A smile passed over the old diplomat's abruptly from the window he stamped his withered face, and leaning forward he took foot on the bare floor, and with clinched from the table a parchment, from which de- and raised face, hissed : ' pended two golden seals stamped with the A curse on them ! Heaven's most terrible double-headed eagle of Russia. curse on the houses of Paulowitsch and Ro- • Read that,' he said, handing the young manoff !' man the document. Madam Rulofi looked up from her sewing It was a commission appointing Wladislas and fastened her patient, blue eyes on her Gallitzin General of Brigade in the Imperial son. She had been a very handsome wo- Guard, and it bore the sign manual man, but there were lines of care on the ferehead, and traces of pain about the * Byt po siemu. white Czar Alexis.' well cut mouth. The dead gold-hair, visible under her snowy cap, had threads of silver (Be it so. Czar Alexander). The young in it, and the small white hands looked as bowed, and stood for some seconds in man if they had not long been familiar with the sharp eyes reading his face silence, the old, heavy coarse work on which they were now the while. engaged* In a low musical voice she said : * Patience, patience, my son. Do not give CHAPTER II. up until we have heard of the efforts of our GARRET. old friend, and your old schoolmate, Gallit- IN THE zin of Novgorod.' Within sight of the Winter Palace, and At mention of the soldier-prince's name Ruloff glanced on a little, dim, snow-blocked street running Elizabeth up from her work, back from the Neva, there stands a very and a crimson wave passed over the pale high, narrow house, with very small win- face and white throat. She looked as her dows, and over the dingy door is a sign in mother must have done at eighteen, less the : ; — VLADIMEER THE NIHILIST. expression of care which her mother, the the autocrat with conscript bayonets ten petted daughter of a rich noble, could not thousands deep ; let them mount a Cossack have had. Elizabeth Ruloff might have lancer on every horse, from the Neva to the passed for the heroine of an old Norse ro- Don : let them man the batteries of Cron- mance, the veritable daughter of a Viking. stadt, and plant cannon in the streets of Without comment she continued her work, Saint Petersburg; let them rob the people of while her brother, retaining his attitude, the last vest'ge of this mockery of liberty, eloquent of youthfnl passion and manly in- and fill every town and hamlet with cring- dignation, said, with manner of a man ing spies—yet they cannot keep ihi dagger speaking his fiery thoughts rather than ad- from the heart of the tyrant, nor the torch dressing those present from his throne. Fifty millions of the down- 1 It may be Gillitzin's turn next. But an trodden await the signal ! Throughout all hour since I met him on his way to the the Russias, eyes hungry for the God-given Winter Palace, in obedience to a peremptory light of liberty peer through the darkness, summons of that monster Gortschakoff. to catch the first sparks of the coming con- To-morrow Wladislas Gallitzin may drag a flagration. Wait ! wait ! Patience, and the chain through the snow*, with his bowed air of Russia, now filled with the clatter of face turned to Siberia.' arms and the groans of the enslaved, will ' !' Oh ! no, brother ! No interrupted Eliz- become musical with the crash of broken abeth Ruloff. shackles!' ' But why not he as well as our father ? On the face of Vladimeer Rulofi an in- Is the house of Gallitzin of better blood, or spired light burned. His right hand was more prolific in warlike patriots, than that raised, and his flashing eyes were turned to of Ruloff?' the ceiling. Even the mother and daughter 1 But,' urged Elizabeth, ' Wladislas Gal- looked with feelings of admiration and awe litzin is fresh from victories in the Bal- on this embodiment of virtuous vengeance, kans.' this personification of the fiery, desperate 1 element that all True ; but did military service save our smouldered under the rami- father or the scars received in a hundred fications of Russia's power. ' battles plead in his defence when the spies Vladimeer, my son ! my son ! Know you of the Czar confronted him with their false not that they are watching you, and that a but well- matured charges of conspiracy ? breath of what'you have just said, if heard One year ago no name stood higher in the by other ears, would result in their tearing favor of Alexander Paulowitsch, our lord you also from me ! As you love me, Vladi- and master, than that of General Count Ru- meer, continue to suffer, and learn from our loff. No man had finer ancestral estates dear Elizabeth the heroism of patience.' no man was happier in the midst of his The mother was on her feet, and her arms family. But where is he now ? An exiled about her son, and the blue eyes larger for slave, dressed in leathern garb, shackled, the tears that dimmed them. and only unhandcuffed that he may the bet- • Patience, my mother, is a womanly vir- ter ply the pick and use the spade in the tue, and the men of Russia have learned it dark, death-breeding mines of Siberia.' from their mothers. If I could talk as bold- ly on the streets as I do here, there would •Oh, my son ! my son ! Do not ! do not make darker the sombre picture in my be freedom and peace in the land. But you heart ?' wailed Madame Ruloff. mistake if you think the sentiments I utter I • Pardon me, my mother,' said Vladimeer are mine only. What here say aloud, ten bending and kissing her. • I would not will- thousands -aye ten millions of people are thinking or whispering into fai'hful ears this fully add a pang to your agony ; but I can- not keep back the expression of the feelings night.' Then kissing his mother and speak- that haunt me night and day. Confiscation ing with an affectation of cheerfulness, he has impoverished us, and I am helpless to continued: 'But I will be cautious, for save you from mental labor and biting want. your and my sister's sakes. Have I not Men acknowledge my education, and con- been prudent ? Did I not, when discharged beggarly professorship cede 1 have abilities that should win bread, last month from my in the School of Mines, bury my nails in my at least, for my loved ones ; but those who could employ me shrink from having in their palms, and my teeth in my lips, as I smiled service the son of the falsely-charged con- and bowed myself out ? Oh ! I have pati- spirator Ruloff. The minions of the Czar ence. The Ruioffs never rushed so blindly would imform him that those who gave me into a danger that they did not see their way work were Nihilists, and ruin would come out.' to them with the suddenness of a Caspian ' But you father! bear in mind, my son. the storm. Again, I say a curse on the house that if the advisers of the Czar decide to- Romanoff! Let them encircle the throne of destroy you—like the wolf with the lamb VLADIMEER THE NIHILIST. they will not want for an excuse. Do not streets. Before turning a corner they would give them the shadow of one, by any associa- stop and listen for the patrol, and only move tion with the revolutionary element. And on when assured they were not observed by above all, cease companionshin with Michael any of the many men in uniform on the Pushkeene,' said Madam Ruloff. streets. After half an hour's turning and ' Well, Michael is not fair to look on, I doubling in the shadows they came to a concede, but a braver, truer heart never sombre-looking structure that stood back beat. I do not encourage his admiration for from the street, and before which burned two Elizabeth, though the fondness argues well huge lamps. The space in front of this bar- for his taste. But his most assiduous court rack-like house was railed off from the is paid to freedom, and his country is the street, and the snow-covered shrubbery and only bride he desires.' fountain showed the inclosure was a flower Vladimeer Ruloff had scarcely ceased garden in the summer season. The two speaking when a cautious tapping was heard young men must have been seen as they ap- at the door. Elizabeth tooked up, and her proaced, for as they neared the massive face grew paler as in answer to her brother's front door it swung open. They entered a • enter,' a small, lean faced man, with black wide, dimly lit hall, the door closing noise- hair and eyes, walked in and stood bowing lessly behind them. Into the farther end of before her. the hall poured a cataract of stairs, and up Without looking at the man Elizabeth in- these stairs the young men went, the cush- clined her fair head and bent lower over her ioned steps giving no sound, and no evidence work, while Madam Ruloff placed a chair, of life meeting their eyes. Entering a dim and said something about its being a cold upper hall they traversed half its length and night. were brought to a halt by a tall figure, wear- ' A very cold night, Madam Ruloff, but ing a black mask. you look warm here.'' Michael Pushkeene ' What seek you here ?' demanded the his to the stove, little turned t back and his mask. black eyes on Elizabeth ' Thanks, I will ' That which we have lost,' replied Vladi- ' not sit down,' he said ; Professor Vladimeer meer Ruloff and I have an engagement with some friends ' What have you lost ?' to night, and it is nearly time we were with ' Something hidden in the heart blood of them." our masters,' replied Vladimeer, in an in- 'And I,' said Vladimeer, ' came near for- tense whisper. getting it, in watching from the window the ' Its name ?' illumination along the Neva. It is the first ' Liberty !' ' of the new year ; some are no doubt wishing The answer is correct. Follow me.' The their friends happy new years, but it is a mask replaced the dagger in his girdle, and mockery.' led the way to a room in which sat a figure ' A great mockery,' rejoiued Michael Push- attired like himself. The walls of this room | keene, bringing his hands from behind and looked like a giant honey-comb, filled with rubbing them. black bundles. The man rose, and taking Vladimeer Ruloff put on a long, heavy ', two bundles, handed them to the new-com- overcoat, any a fur cap, the visor of which ers, whispering as he did so: concealed his face. ' There is no time to spare.' • I will be gone but a few hours,'' he said Each bundle contained a black mask and to his mother, as he kissed her affection- a long black gown, which Vladimeer Ruloff ately. and his friend at once assumed. • And you will keep clear of danger, my ' Are you ready ?' asked the guard, in the son,' she whispered. same cautious tones. • I promise you that,' he replied. 'We are ? responded Pushkeene. Michael Pushkeene bowed again to the The guard tapped on the wall, and an an- ladies, and made as if he were going to shake swering tap came from the other side. Then hands, but seeing no disposition on their the wall slid back without noise, and closed, part to meet him, he turned and went out as the two young men stepped through the with Vladimeer. opening. They were in a room filled with figures CHAPTER IH. dressed like themselves. These people were 4 talking in low tones, and despite the dis- VERY REMARKABLE IN WHICH A GATHERING guise it was evident not a few of them were 13 DESCRIBED. women. FHty-two ?' called out a voice at the fur- Vladimeer Ruloff and his friend Michael ther of end the room ; and all the maskers in the Pushkeene kept darkest, narrowest turned to Vladimeer and his friend, who : ; : ' VLADIMEER THE NIHILIST. now advanced and stood by a long table that Pushkeene rose, and was recognized as the ran down the middle of the apartment. knave of clubs. ' Ghourke comes within the ' The pack is full," said Vladimeer, look- forfeit. Remember, an eye for eye, and a ing along the table. tooth for a tooth ; the dagger for the knout, There were fifty-two chairs, and on the and death for exile !' table, before every chair, a playing card was Michael Pushkeene sat down and the pre- fastened. siding officer asked Then let the game go on. Here is the 'What say you, my friends? The game box; draw.' This was said in a woman's moves slowly.' voice, and a short slender figure laid a box ' It is a forfeit,' said the woman repre- on the centre of the table, and inserting her senting the queen of hearts. ' Let us draw hand, drew out a card. Holding it up so lots.' all could see, she called oat, ' The queen of ' Hold !' called out a deep bass voice at hearts !' and took the chair opposite that the foot of the table. ' Ghourko left Saint card. In the same manner the others drew. Petersburg to-day to join his brother in the The knave of clubs fell to Michael Push- Crimea ; but the man who takes his place at keene's lot and the ace of diamonds to Vladi- the head of the Czar's secret police becomes meer's. The ace of hearts was at the head responsible for the sins of that office. This of the table, where there was a larger chair. has ever been our rule. Our brethren in This place was drawn by a tall man, whose the Crimea will will care for Ghourko ; it is long, red beard showed under his mask. our duty to deal with his successor.' For some minutes after all had taken their Who is his successor?' asked the presid- places they sat with their heads bowed on ing officer. their hands as if in silent prayer. The ace ' I know not,' replied the deep-voiced of hearts broke the spell of thrilling silence by man. ' But to-morrow's Gazette will an- j-ising and saying nounce his name. Gortschakoff sees that ' It falls to my lot to preside at the game the offices near his imperial master are not to-night. It is the first game of the year. long vacant.' It should gladden us to know that one hun- ' Would it not be well,' asked Vladimeer dred thousand games are being played at Ruloff, rising, and speaking in agitated this hour by our brothers from the White tones, ' to defer all action in this matter for Sea to the Black, from the quarries of the present ?' Siberia to the salt mines of old Poland. The queen of hearts again rose, and said, During the past year many of our brothers in a low, intense voice : and sisters have fallen before the rifle, under * We must not defer until to-morrow, what the knout, or died on the gallows ; but can be! done to-day. I know Ghourko's each death has been a crop of dragon's teeth successor, and have known it since yester- from which armed men swarm up for liberty. day.' During the past year many of our friends, ' Who is he,' demanded a number of and those suspected of being our friends, voices. have been dragged down from positions of ' Wladislas, the Prince Gallitzin of Nov- honor and sent to Siberia, while their fami- gorod !' she replied. lies, deprived of means, are left to famish. ' Gallitzin of Novgorod !' ran from lip to This has been notably the case with my old lip. friend and master, General the Count Ru- ' Gallitzin of Novgorod !' she repeated, loff. But though the father is gone, the adding, with thrilling fervor: 'And now I edict that banished him sent into our ranks insist that lots be drawn.' Vladimeer, the Nihilist. * Our sister is right in her demand. Let A murmur of applause ran round the all the cards be again placed in the box,' table, and the masks looked from one to the said the presiding officer. other as if trying to find General Ruloff's ' Before this step is taken, I, the ace of under the disguise. diamonds, appeal to you to postpone action • The word Nihil means ' nothing ' mean- in this matter. You may not know, but I ingless in itself, is significant of the replies do that Wladislas Gallitzin was, for many given to all our petitions and pleadings. years before the war with Turkey, a resident Three days since Paul Rudier went to of America; and he is not now, and never Ghourko to plead for his father's life. To- has been, a friend of the tyrant, or—a foe to day the father is dead, and Paul Rudier is his own down-trodden countrymen on his was to Siberia. Action must be taken He will prove your words if he refuses on this case at once. the position this day tendered him by Gorts- The ace of hearts sat down, and looked chakoff,' interrupted the woman. ' Bat from mask to mask. whether he accepts or not, some one will fill • There is but one course to take.' Michael the place. It is against the man who be- : : VLADIMEER THE NIHILIST. comes chief of the Czar's spies that our card twice in succession. The guards with- blows must be aimed. Again I insist on the out were the only persons that saw the drawing.' Nihilists unmasked, but as those guards ' And again I oppose it,' said Vladimeer could not possibly hear anything that took Rulofi, hotly. place, and were changed by lot every night, ' You cannot oppose a rule of the game," a profound secrecy was assured. But apart sneered the woman. from these precautions there was the still ' that I Draw if you will ; but know now stronger one of death against treason ; not to will not respond should the lot fall to me.' mention the still more potent one of a com- A hoarse murmur ran round the table, mon league against a common wrong. ' followed by a chorus of Draw ! Draw ! The people left the room one, or at most Draw!' two, at a time. It was ten o'clock at night 'Will you abide by my decision ?' asked when Vladimeer Ruloff and Michael Push- the presiding officer. keene unmasked and went to a hall on the • Yes,' was the response. first floor, where a large number oi ladies He inserted his hand in the box, rattled and gentlemen were engaged in merry, social the cards round for fully a minute, then, converse. Not a few wore the imperial uni- with thrilling deliberation, he pulled out a form. long dagger, and with it a card. Turning a card, he called out CHAPTER IV. ?' ' Can you all see it •We can," they replied. THE CZAR S SPY. •What is it?' The official Gazette of Saint Petersburg • of hearts !' came the response. The queen contained, the day following the events rose hurriedly from the chair, The woman narrated in the preceding chapter, this table, she and going to the head of the notice picked up the glittering weapon, and holding • It has pleased his majesty to promote it high above her head, she said, in the Colonel the Prince Gallitzin to the rank of thrilling accents that characterized her general of brigade, an honor well von by -words : distinguished service south of the Danube • I pledge my life to bury this blade in the during the war that has just closed with so heart of him who holds the office of the much honor to Russia. The foregoing is •Czar's spy !' given as official. It is whispered in the She hid the blade inside the long, black best informed circles, that the young prince gown, and walked back to her chsir with a is to be detailed for a position of secret bearing that denoted inflexible resolution. trust, that will bring him into !' close and in- • What other business have we asked the timate relations with our imperial master. presiding officer. It is even intimated, among the officers of A case to investigate ?' said the deep- the Guard, that Gallitzin of Novgorod is the voiced man. ' It is rumored that one Mich- successor of the vigilant General Ghourgo, ael Pushkeene, a member of our order, has who has won for himself the sobriquet of been seen in consultation with our foes.' the Russian Argus, etc.' ' I deny the charge, and demand, in be- half of Michael Pushkeene, an investigation,' Vladimeer Ruloff read this passage to his called out the owner of that name, as he mother and sister, and asked theii opinion. held .up the card he was known by at that ' I am glad,' said Madam Ruloff, ' that meeting. one of our friends is meeting wi.h the favor The deep- voiced man repeated the charge, he deserves.' ' favor, fill the and at his request three were appointed to A to place of the perfidious hear the defence, and mete out such punish- Ghoutko !' exclaimed Vladimeer. 'I would ment as the case, if proven, demanded. rather hear that he was dead—or worse, sent off to Siberia !' Verbal reports were made of recent ' out- ' rages ' on the part of the government, and of You may^depend, my brother, that Prince the success that had attended the plans of Gallitzin will occupy no position that reflects the Nihilists. not credit on himself, and do no act that A remarkable thing in connection with does not become a gentleman, a patriot, and said this meeting was that there was nothing a soldier,' Elizabeth Ruloff, a beaming documentary about it; not a record that light in her wonderful blue eyes. could be found if the police were to burst in ' I fear, dear sister, you are not in a condi- on the moment. The members were dis- tion to judge impartially of your young guised, and by a curious lot, they were de- friend's acts." signated as cards, and only by the merest Vladimeer Ruloff smiled sadly and began chance could any one represent the same pacing the room. : : : 10 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. I believe I am still of sound mind, Vladi- our father's cause?' asked Elizabeth Ru- meer." she said with dignity. loff. ' ; ' Aye, and of sound heart but with your Yes, sister, right in the abstract ; but, like feelings it would be hard to make you believe every other abstract right, it is dangerous to that General Gallitzin, as we can call him assert it in this land.' now, could do anything that was not right ' I will see the Prince Gallitzin and beg !' Hark ! a step on the stairs him to plead for my father,' said Elizabeth, Vladimeer went to the door, just as a rap with unusual energy. ' I care not what was heard on the other side. the reasons or the policy may be against the On the door being opened, a young man in act. I would bend, yes, bow my head in the uniform of a Cossack lancer, strode in, the dust to save my father.' and assuming a military attitude, stood with 'And so endanger the life of the man you ?' his hand to his hat. love said Vladimeer, preparing to leave. ' • Men do not risk their lives blindly. Ah, Ruryk I What news bring you from your master, General Gallitzin ?' asked Wladislas Gallitzin will not. He mnst Vladimeer. judge, if it be right and safe to help us, as often The corporal removed his hat, but still he has promised he would.' maintaining his rigid attitude, he said ' It will do no harm to try. Now I must oe going; first to see about the clerkship ' My master bade me present his compli- with the American merchant, and then to ments and profound regards to the Countess keep my appointment with the general.' Ruloff and her daughter. He is their obe- Vladimeer kissed his mother and sister dient servant.' and went out. It was nearing the close of a The soldier stopped suddenly, and the very short day, and though only half-past ladies bowed, when he continued at the two the shopkeepers and lamp- lighters were same pitch making ready for darkness. The flat streets, • ' Ruryk, say you to Professor Ruloff, the bordered by high flat buildings, looked par- son of the Countess, that I desire to see him ticularly gloomy, and the muffled figures quarters to night at seven ; I will be at my passing back forth seemed anything but and supper will be set for two.' These alone, cheerful. Vladimeer Ruloff entered a corn- the general spoke, and I have re- words fortable-looking house, within a stone's throw ported.' of the Hermitage, and handing his card to a soldier replaced his hat, wheeled, and The white-capped servant-maid, said was about to walk out, when Vladimeer • I desire to see Miss Radowsky. Please called to him : say I will not detain her a moment.' ?' to ' Did the general send a note He was conducted into a cozy, well-fur- ' line,' replied the soldier. Not a nished parlor. On the low grate burned a •Present the compliments of myself and hard coal fire. The chandelier was lit, and daughter,' said Madam Ruloff, ' and our the portraits of the present Czar, his father congratulations on his deserved promo- Nicholas, and several members of the royal tion.' family adorned the walls. repeated her words like an The soldier He had been seated but a few minutes, echo. when he heard the rustle of a dress behind ' the prince that I will call at And say to him, and turning he saw a young woman of appointed,' said Vladimeer. the hour twenty, petite of form, with the complexion Ruryk the Cossack saluted, wheeled, and of a child on cheek and brow, and the iron Strode out, as if on parade. resolve ot a soldier in the thin red lips and ' I wish I could see General Gallitzin,' keen brown eyes. Ruloff, the sound of the ' said Madam when Oh ! Professor Ruloff, your visit is not soldier's feet died away on the bare stairs. unexpected. How are you to day ?' • Being so close to the Czar, he might be These words were uttered in the low, able to secure a pardon, or, better still, an thrilling tones that distinguished the queen impartial hearing of your father's case.' of hearts at the Nihilist meeting; it now be- ' A pardon from the Czar would imply an longed to Miss Helen Radowsky, an instruc- oftence on the part of my father; a new trial tor of German in the imperial family. would imply the possibility of error on the After a few complimentary commonplaces, that he could speak with- part of the tribunal that sent him unhear I and the assurance into exile. No, my mother, I have no hope, out danger of being overheard, Vladimeer General Gallitzin would subject himself to Ruloff asked : ?' suspicion if he whispered a word in our be- ' Have you read the Gazette of to-day ?' half. We can ask from him no sacrifice,' • What past 7* said Vladimeer, gloomily. ' That pertaining to Prince Gallitzin 1 • Would it not be right for him to plead I have.' ' : ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 11 • And you believe the unofficial statement, The entrance of the white-capped servant that he is to be at the head of the secret with another card broke up the conversation. ?' police As Vladimeer rose to go he whispered : ' I do,' she replied with emphasis. ' Permit me to call again at ten.' • I do not.' • Impossible !' 1 ?' • Even the Czar cannot prevent a differ- Impossible ence oi opinion,' laughed Helen Radow- ' Yes, I have an engagement with Prince sky. Gallitzin at that hour.' She bowed and As if he had not heard her, Vladimeer Ru- turned to the new comer, and Vladimeer loff continued in his impetuous way : Ruloff took his departure. ' believe it ; the Prince Gallitzin I cannot After stopping for an hour at ' The Ameri- is incapable of doing anything that is not can Store,' as a large warehouse on the bold, open and manly. He comes of a family Great Side was called, Vladimeer made his honored for noble deeds— way to the most magnificent of European ' Vladimeer Ruloff ! I willing Hold am streets, the Nevskoi Prospekt. Here the shall utter your opinions give you and vent wide, straight concourse was filled with gay to your feelings— Heaven knows how you sleighing parties, and the palatial structures been provoked ; but must not at- have you on either hand, were ablaze with light. He tempt to teach me about the House of Gal- stopped near the confines of the Second ?' litzin. Did you know I was born in Poland Admiralty District, at a house which, unlike She leaned forward, her dark eyes burning the others, seemed deserted. The only sign his face. into of life came in the shape of a colored cres- ' I think your indicate name would a Po- cent above the massive door. In answer to lish origin.' the bell, Ruryk the Cossack admitted Vladi- « And rightly. Up to 1832 the Radowskies meer. were in Poland what the Ruloffs were in ' Is the Prince in ?' asked Vladimeer. Russia until one year ago. My father's 1 General Gallitzin awaits you,' replied the father resisted the partition and fell with the orderly, saluting and leading immortal Radzivil. My own father ever rigid the way to the upper floor. cherished thoughts of freedom for his belov- The prince met his visitor at the ed land, and he was permitted to retain the head of the stairs, and after greeting him with feudal estates of our family; but in the year boy- ish heartiness, conducted him into a named a futile revolution broke out. The comfor- tably furnished apartment that was Prince Gallitzin—father of the Czar's spy at once a sitting-room and military office. — was sent to our country. He seized my father, threw him into prison, and there he The prince's first inquiries were for was left for twenty-two years, until Alexander Madam Ruloff and her daughter; and the came to the throne and sought eclat by heightened flush on his bronze cheek, as he breaking a few shackles, in 1855. My father mentioned the name of the beautiful Eliza- came out an old man, his estates confiscated, beth, bespoke a more than friendly interest. his family destroyed. He went to London, • I saw the Gazette to-day, and congratu- married a French lady, and survived ten late you on the new military grade,' said years—a teacher of languages. When my Vladimeer, when they were seated and wait- mother died three years ago, I came to ing the announcement of supper. Saint Petersburg, and by constant effort ob- • I think it was not undeserved. —But what tained the place I now hold. Of course I think you of my being detailed for love the imperial family, of course I love the The prince hesitated and Vladimeer ad- gallant descendant of the jailer Gallitzin. ded But,' she drew near and lowered her voice, ' For the duties lately discharged by without decreasing its terrible intensity, Ghourko.' ' ' like that," but I dreamt last night thatWladislas Gal- , Something said the prince, litzin fell by a woman's hand, before he had blushing. I am aware that you have no been twenty-four hours in the place. Would cause to like the man, nor have I any relish ?' it not be horrible if my dream came true for the duties for the place but I have ' Very horrible ; but, then, it was only a thought that I might be ab'e to use the office drtam. Curious, but J, too, had a dream for the benefit of the discontented, without last night, Miss Radowsky. Methought neglecting the duties I owe my imperial Prince Gallitzin pleaded successfully for the master.' life of my father, and that I, in recognition ' I hope you may,' said Vladimeer, mus- of it, placed my life at his service," said ingly. Vladimeer. ' I propose continued the prince, ' to have ' !' laughed, all dreams are case of your father Ah she absurd ; the reviewed at once. but yours is more absurd than mine.' My position will give me power in this way; ' ; ' 12 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. • take life 1' exclaimed the prince. and I assure you this was the strongest reason To my — • life,' persisted Vladimeer. that prompted me to accept To take your !' • what I done to incite the wild- • Heaven bless you But have Vladimeer took his friend's hand and bent est to do such an act ? Who is there, north of the Balkans, that would desire me dead ?' over it with emotion. 4 drawing At this point Ruryk announced supper. Many," replied Vladimeer, him The meal was plain as camp fare in front still further away from the light now stream- of the enemy— plainer, indeed, for there was ing through the door of the salon. 4 no liquor ou the table. Many !' repeated General Gallitzin, in The meal over, they went back to the amazement. ' to keep secret, office, and while they smoked they talked Very many. Pledge me over plans for the restoration of General until death, what I am about to say, for in the doing it I risk my own life to save yours.' the Count Ruloff ; and so sanguine was prince of success that he insisted on loaning The general took the proffered hand, and Vladimeer a thousand gold roubles. ' Your said 4 father will repay me with interest,' he said, 1 pledge myself to secrecy, on the honor 'before the year expires." They talked on of a Gallitzin.' ' There is a plot,' Vladimeer spoke, in an till the bells in the many steeples tolled the hour of ten. Then the ringing of a nearer intense whisper. 'There is a plot to keep the place lately vacant, bell was heard, and Ruryk entered with I occupied by Ghourko by means of the dagger. Hush ! you prem- card. The prince read it, and rising, said : ised not to ask me how I know. Apart from « You must pardon me, Vladimeer; but a have an engagement with a lady at this hour. this,—you have one bitter, fierce unrelenting She has information of importance to com- foe ' I municate, and for this purpose I granted her When and where have done a wrong ?' an audience.' that would call for a moment's enmity ' The sins or acts of the father are often ' A lady ? Do not go ! I beg you do not go ! !' visited on the children in this day. Your It may be a plot! Let me accompany you gasped Vladimeer, reaching out his hand to father governed a province of Poland, after there placed in restrain his friend. the revolt of 1832, and prison But the prince did not hear him, else the Count Radowsky, father of the woman awaiting in the salon. surely he would have stopped. Vladimeer now you He was kept in prison, till the death of the Czar Nic- saw him vanish ; heard him descending the holas, in '55, and then went to London, stairs ; and then with a shout of alarm he visitor was born and started after him. where your the old man died. For the house of Gallitzin she has a rich heritage of hate. I have told you CHAPTER V. enough to put you on your guard.' Vladimeer moved as if about to HELEN RADOWSKY AND THE PRINCE. take his departure. Vladimeer Ruloff ran down the stairs, and ' Will you not wait until the interview is caught the arm of General Gallitzin, just as over ?' he was about to enter a salon to the right, ' I cannot. She must not know I was here which a servant was now lighting up. when she came.' The general saw, with surprise, the pale ' Then I will call on the countess to-mor- face and excited manner of his friend, who row at noon. Be pleased to convey kind re- seemed unable to speak. membrances.' ' Are you ill, Vladimeer ?' he asked. The young men shook hands, and Vladi- ' Yes, yes ! Come with me ! Let me speak meer took his departure. with you before you see that woman !' gasped General Gallitzin, as a soldier, was the Vladimeer. bravest of the brave. At Plevna he made a The prince drew him to one side, and said charge with his regiment of artillery, and in kindly tones: carried his guns and caissons into the very ' My dear friend your recent troubles have camp of Osman Pasha ; and held his place, made you nervous and suspicious ; pray calm though every horse was killed, and one-half yourself, for there can be no danger in see- his men were cut down by the murderous ing this woman. It is not an unusual occur- fire of the S warming Turkish legions. It rence.' was hs who, at the passage of the Danube, ' Do not ask me my reasons ; do not at- built a raft, placed on it a battery, and bold- tribute my fears to an excited brain, nor in- ly sweeping out with the current, engaged, quire as to the source of my information. sunk one of Admiral Hobart's gunbeats Be assured that there is a plot to take your and so opened the way for the safe crossing life,' said Vladimeer. of the army. His valor was that of high : ' ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 13 chivalric order that inspires the dullest of own- house. Be pleased to state the object followers with his martial spirit, and makes of your appointment,' he said, his eyes hold- the most indiffereut a patriot and a hero. ing hers, until she became nervous, and fum- The thunder of the enemy's guns made for bled, with her right hand inserted in the him sweeter mustc than the band attached folds of her fur wrap. to his regiment. He would not say so him- ' I am a teacher in the imperial family— seli, for he had that modesty that ever ac- She hesitated and cast down her eyes un- but every der his burning gaze. companies the highest courage ; man in the army believed that he was in- ' I am aware of that. I know what you sensible to anythiug like fear. Now, as he are, and who you are. Pardon me, but my stood stroking his brow, before entering the time is limited.' salon where Helen Kadowsky awaited him, a General Gallitzin rose, and stood with his dread that he could not comprehend came left arm resting on the malachite mantel, the choice been offered and his right arm thrown upon him ; and had gracefully behind he would have chosen to charge a battery him. rather than meet this strange woman. Like 'You are imitating your predecessor in the memory of an early dream, he recalled obtaining information about people, and your having heard his dead father speak of the excellency is right.' Count Radowsky of Poland, and that his in- She rose, and comiDg nearer, said, with carceration was by the order of the Czar. a sudden intensity : a woman,' mused « know of a plot Oh ! I am becoming I to assassinate the General Gallitzin. 'A foolish, nervous wo- Czar.' this before I have even entered on To assassinate the Czar ! man ; and ; repeated the the duties of the office I have assumed, that general, completely thrown off his guard. 1 I might bring a better understanding be- And to assassinate you !' tween my countrymen and their ruler. I al- She took a long, quick step, toward him, most wish 1 had remained amid the fresh, and the hand in her breast was so far with- and unconstrained freedom of drawn as to show the glitter characters of the daggerS6 Western America. But I am here, and have hilt. duties to perform.' The general did not move. He saw and He turned, and after surveying his splen- understood all, but for the moment he stood did form and handsome face in one of the spall-bound by the woman before him. He mirrors that lined the hall, he entered the could see her flashing eyes, and the white salon. teeth gleaming through her thin, scornful rose to meet lips he felt her A lady, young and handsome, ; and hot breath on his hand, him. as she shot out the words : Waving her to the chair from which she ' To assassinate you. for the crime of your !' had risen, he said : father in Poland • I am General Gallitzin.' — Another instant and the hand clutching • And I am Miss Helen Radowsky the dagger would have been withdrawn; but ' The lady from whom I, to day, received short as was the time, another form forced a letter, promising important information, if itself between her and the general, and look- ?' I made an appointment ing up, she saw before her Ruryk the Cos- •The same.' sack, and the dagger hand was powerless in Helen Radowsky fastened her deep, burn- his clutch. ing eyes on him, and thought ' Pardon me, my master, but the lady will ' How wondrously handsome the man is ! talk better without this.' Can this be the son of such a father ? Can Ruryk, with wonderfnl dexterity, possess- this demigod be the Czar's spy ?' she drew ed himself of the weapon, and striding back her hand across her eyes, and sinking her to the salon doors, resumed his stolid, mil- voice, asked : itary attitude. • Can we not talk in a more private « What does this mean ?' demanded the place ?' prince, now recovered from the daze that • My house is private from top to bottom. came over him. You cannot utter a word here that is not ' It means that your henchman has been as secret and sacred, if you command it, as rude, that in his brutal zeal he mistook my repled. in your own room,' he earnestness, my anxiety for your life to mean 4 tell to trust in this land, danger! We cannot whom Give me back that weapon !' she in these times,' cried, turning to the Cossack. ' I walk the She glanced at the door, where stood streets alone, and it is my sole protection Ruryk, the Cossack, as if on sentry, and drew that on my honor !' her chair closer to where the general sat. ' Give her back the dagger, Ruryk,' com- • You can trust those whom I trust, m my manded the general. 14 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. The Cossack let the weapon fall, and in into her hand. She staggered into the picking it up he placed his foot on the blade, house, turned up the light, and saw it was ? grasped the handle and snapped it off like a jewel-hilted dagger. pipe stem. Picking up the fragments he walked over and placed them in her hands, CHAPTER VI. saying to the master : * It was a brittle blade, General, and if the MICHAEL PUSHKEENE BECOMES JEALOUS. lady must have a dagger to walk the streets. I will fetch her one from your collection of Michael Pushkeene was the son of a pawn- Turkish and Circassian weapons.' broker and aspired to be a physician ; but he Helen Radowsky dashed the broken blade had not yet completed the long course of to the floor, and glared fiercely at the imper- study necessary to obtain a doctor's diploma turable soldier. in Russia, Years ago he had made the ac- 'I regret that my orderly misunderstood quaintance of Prince Gallitzin and Vladi- your acts,' said the general, motioning to meer, son of Count Ruloff. while attending Ruryk to withdraw. ' Yot can depend on lectures on Chemistry at the Mining School. me for protection for your home, and secrecy At that time Michael Pushkeene, with more as to what has happened here. I am con- ambition than brains, and more presumption vinced you mean to be my friend, and I pro- than manhood, toadied to the young nobles, pose to prove myself not unworthy your and aspired to belong to their executive class. confidence. Pardon me for a moment.' It did not take him long to discover that the Scarce knowing what she did. Helen Ra- acquaintance of the class-room did not im- dowsky, as it under the wand of an enchan- ply the friendship of the salon. ter, dropped into a chair, at the motion of Michael Pushkeene secretly rejoiced when his arm; and General Gallitzin left the the tongues of Saint Petersburg became busy salon, with a courtly bow. with discussing the ' Ruloff Conspiracy,' as it He went to his military office and tapped was called. During the mockery of a trial a bell. Before the reverberation had died he was a constant attendant on Vladimeer out, a stout, heavy beared man in the livery Ruloff, and when the count was sent into ex- of the prince made his appearance, and said ile Pushkeene was cautiously loud in his de- • in a deep bass voice : nunciation of the outrage.' He succeeded ' I await your excellency.* in winning the confidence of the generous * Order my sleigh at once, Varwitch.' and impulsive Viadimeer, and he felt that he •Yes, your excellency,' with an abject bow had gained an important step in the ladder •And send my Valet.' of advancement when he was introduced to 4 Yes, your excellency.' the Countess Ruloff and her beautiful daugh- Varwitch waited an instant, and no other ter. order coming he stepped backward and van- Among the many absurd proverbs in circu- ished. lation, is that, that 'like begets like.' In 4 You called me, your excellency.' his way, Michael Pushkeene loved Elizabeth * Yes, Paul. Bring me my cloak and Ruloff from the first ; and in her way she gloves—and my belt with the light pistols.' had a feeling of loathing for the man no rank The valet withdrew, hut soon came back or wealth could have banished. with the desired articles and helped his mas- ' I am richer, far richer than she now,' he ter to assume them. thought. ' She has sunk away below the General Gallitzin went down to the salon, son of the Troiskoi pawnbroker ; but I will where Helen Radowsky was still sitting with lift her up ; she shall be the wife of Doctor her hands clasped and her eyes on the floor. Pushkeene ; but I must have her all to my- ' My sleigh is at the door, Miss Radowsky. self—no mother, no brother to interfere.' Mine must be the honor of escorting you It was Michael Pushkeene who made Val- home to night.' dimeer Ruloff a member of the Nihilist or- He offered her his arm and she tried to re- ganization, and who took care that every sist the impulse to take it. She drew back, other member knew of the important ac- yet yielded to the stronger will. Her hand quisition. Before his acquaintances he spoke trembled as it touched his sleeve, and she of the Ruloffs with a coarse familiarity, and coughed to clear her voice. She found her- ever aimed to create the impression that his self in the sleigh, by the side of the man she wife should be the daughter of a count. came to kill. She saw the horses, three 'And where are you going now?' asked abreast, dashing off; and she heard the bells, shrunken, shrivelled, swarthy old Michael and still more musical voice of the Czar's Pushkeene, as his son descended from the liv- spy. Her brain was in the whirl of incip- ing rooms over the pawnshop. ' Why can't ient intoxication. She was left at her own you stay home and stick down to your books ? door, and the prince had forced something In wasting your time, you waste the money I ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 15 have saved up through five-and-twenty years ation that the latter was just two minutes and to educate you. I never spend a kopeck on a half slow. The little clock ticked louder myself, nor have a moment to spare.' as if it heard and understood the comment, 1 I am going to a private clinic, father,' and was determined to catch up and even replied young Michael Pushkeene, as he get ahead of the regular time. drew on his black fur gloves, ' and on my • Our clock is set by the Hermitage bell,' way I shall drop in, for a moment, to see my said Madam Ruloff, speaking to break the poor friend, the Countess Ruloff. awkward silence rather than from any desire 'Yes,' whined the old man, ' and I'll be to engage Michael Puskheene in conversation. bound you'll see the countess's daughter, She gave him a text, and for some minutes too.' he went on to show her why the Hermitage • Well, father, I cannot help seeing the bell and all the other city bells were wrong, beautiful Elizabeth if she forces herself into and positively perplexing in their varied an- my presence. You must not forget that you nouncements of time. It was impossible were once young yourself.' that it should, as he regulated his time every Young Michael laughed and showed his day—when the sun shone at noon —which prominent, yellow teeth ; and old Michael, certainly was an unusual occurrence at this with a shriller whine, retorted : season of the year. • When I was young, I went with people of Putting away his watch, for the second my own class. Your mother, sold fish in the time, Michael Pushkeene, with a view to ap- Gostinoi Dvor, and she was'nt ashamed of pearing quite calm and comfortable, crossed it.' his legs, and with the little black eyes taking • If you intended I should marry a fish wo- an observation on the top of Elizabeth's man, you should not have set your mind on golden head, he began milking his chin with making me a doctor. You gave me wings, his right hand, the elbow supported in his and I propose to fly higher than my nest. left palm. Now, good afternoon.' ' It is a source of constant grief to me, Young Michael went out, twirling his cane madam, to see that you and your accom- with one hand and a ragged moustache, that plished daughterare reduced to the necessity looked like a case of black milldew with the of this drudgery and privation,' said Michael other, while the old man adjusted his big Pushkeene, after he had finished his obser- spectacles and peered through the dingy win- vation on the golden head and brought his dow after his son, with an expression of pride eyes to bear on the face of the mother.' on his yellow, miserable face. 'We do not complain,' said the countess, I want to keep the boy's pride down, but with a tinge of hauteur. • he is as good as the best. Why shouldn't the Of course you do not ; you are too noble son of rich Michael Pushkeene, the pawn- and heroic for that, and that's why your case broker, aspire to the hand of the daughter of seems harder to your friends.' a disgraced and exiled count ? Why not, in- ' Our friends ?' repeated Elizabeth, with- deed, when he's too good for her !' out looking at him. After this soliloquy the old man refreshed He was so elated at being noticed, even in himself with a pinch of snuff, and turned to this scornful way, by the proud girl, that he wait on a woman who came in to pawn her quickly unfolded his legs, placed his palms own rags that she might get food for her on his knee, with great emphasis, and went starving little ones. on: The doctor in embryo, with a self-satisfied • Yes Miss Eliz— Miss Ruloff, your friends. air, wended his way to the abode of Madam Do not think because a cruel court has Ruloff. sentenced your noble father, and that be. Vladimeer was out, Elizabeth said. cause the double-headed eagle has ravenous- ?' ' Will he be in soon asked Pushkeene, his ly seized on his estates, that you have not hand on the back of a chair, as if hesitating friends. You have friends that pray for and whether to sit down or not. think of you all the time ; friends that would in this time,' give their heart's blood, ! He should be by said Eliza- up and their fortunes, beth, glancing at a little clock that ticked to show their devotion.' with amazing vigor and frequency on a stand ' I hope you are right,' said Elizabeth, still near by. plying her needle. ' But we never could test • Then, with your permission, I will wait the friendship of people, so faithful, in the for him a few minutes.' way you mention.' Michael Pushkeene, sat down, and pulling ' Not if you knew it would be an honor out a monstrous gold watch—an unredeem- and a delight for them to serve you ?' ed pledge from his father's shop— he survey- ' In that event it would be wrong to avail ed its face for fully a minute, and compared ourselves of their devotion.' ' it with the clock, and volunteered the inform- You will see that I am right ; that I know 16 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. well, at least, one man who would lay down ' The same, General,' replied the cringing his life to help too noble family of Vladimeer Pushkeene. Ruloff,' said Pushkeene, with pathetic ear- ' I remember having seen you before,' said nestness. the prince, with an elevation of his fine He waited, evidently expecting that the brows that indicated no pleasure at the countess or her daughter would ask who this meeting. self-sacrificing person was, and prepared to Pushkeene swallowed a lump in his throat announce himself as the hero. If either of and made his way out. On the street he them had any such purpose it was prevented stood for some time watching Ruryk and the prince's : by a step in the hall, and a military tap at sleigh ; and, as he left, he muttered * the door. A prince for a rival, eh ! We shall see if The madam opened the door, and discov- the pawnbroker's son does not win.' ed Ruryk, the Cossack, standing at a salute. ' My master, General Gallitzin, is without. He presents his compliments to the Count- CHAPTER VII. ess Ruloff and her daughter, and asks if they AN AUDIENCE WITH THE CZAR. would kindly grant him an audience ?' Elizabeth Ruloff s blue eyes darkened, and ' I would have been to see you sooner/ crimson wave swept over the fair face and a said the prince when the door closed behind white throat ; but she did not rise, nor lay Michael Pushkeene. ' but my time has been aside her work to prepare for the reception wholly taken up at court : and then I wanted, of the man whose presence was the brief sun if possible, to be the bearer of comforting of her dreary, wintry life. news.' Be pleased to inform General the Prince ' It would have been a pleasure to see you Gallitzin, of Novgorod, that the Countess under any circumstances,' said the madam. Ruloff and her daughter will see at him ' Myself and Elizabeth have both been anx- said Ruloff. once,' Madam ious for an opportunity to congratulate you Ruryk saluted, wheeled as if he were on a in person on your well deserved promotion.' pivot, and stalked off with a thirty-two inch 'Yes,' added Elizabeth, ' the hero of the cavalry stride. 1 Balkans earned even more than he has re- 1 fear,' said Michael Pushkeene, rising, ceived.' and looking from Elizabeth to her mother, ' To know that you believe my advance- ' that my waiting for Vladimeer may make ment merited gives more pleasure than me an intruder.' the sign manual of the Czar. I speak of course, To this neither of the ladies made reply. of my military position,' said ths prince, hes- A light, quick step was heard outside, the itating ; then adding : 'The office door opened, and the handsome General vacated by Ghourko is in no respect congenial. I ac- Gallitzin, was in the room. cepted it, first, in obedience to the imperial He kissed the Countess on the cheek, then will, and reconciled mvself to the inevitable took both of Elizabeth's hands in his, and with the belief that I could do good by the admiration in his fine black eyes showed creating a better understanding between the he resisted a temptation in not greeting her authorities and the disaffected elements; in the same way. and, I may add, that I rejoiced to think that Elizabeth's face was now aflame with con- my vicinity to the Czar would enable me to fused delight, but the well-bred selt-posses- obtain an impartial re-hearing of Count Ru- sion never left her. She placed a chair for lofi's case, which I am satisfied will result the prince, and said : in an acquital, and a restoration to his estates 'You have not changed in appearance.' and the high dignities which he so adorned.' * Nay, fair Elizabeth, nor in heart.' At this instant General Gallitzin, who was * From my heart I thank you, General about to sit down, became aware of the pres- Gallitzin,' said the madam, in tremulous ence of Michael Pushkeene, and drawing tones. himself up he glanced over at that person in ' Still call me Wladislas, as you did in the his princely way. happy days of my orphaned boyhood, when Pushkeene, now feeling as much out of no place on earth seemed so much like home place as a fish out of water, stammered as he as the castle of General the Count Ruloff.' picked up his hat, and made a crab-like •Then, Wladislas Gallitzin,' she said, movement toward the door. taking his hand and pressing it between Lers, ' I am Michael Pushkeene. I was waiting let me thank you again ; not all the old-time to meet my old friend, and yours, Vladimeer friends are so faithful in this the day of our Ruloff.' tribulation.' ' 'You are Pushkeene, the pawnbroker's Ah ! my dear madam, you mistake. All son ?' the old-time friends are just as faithful. VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 17 Those who neglect you now were never The prince took up his fur cap, and Eliza- beth, rising, gave him her hand. friends.' He bent and looked into her beautiful, • I fear you are right,' she signed. mis- downcast face ; he bent lower and she raised • fear I am becoming something of a I her eyes. Their lips met, and in that sim- anthrope. But I have learned one thing ple, honest act there spoke the love of a school days, and that is, that there since my lifetime. Elizabeth Ruloff was the bethroth- immeasureable distance between the is an ed of Wladislas Gallitzin. personal acquaintances and friend- warmest He kissed the madam, shook hands with can count a quaintances by the ship. We Vladimeer, who insisted on seeing him to lucky who does not exhaust ; he is thousands the sleigh, and drove off to the Winter pal- in trying to number the list of his friends ace the very happiest man in all Saint Peters- on the fingers of one hand.' them burg. • you are very fortunate,' said Eliza- Then He went straight to the quarters where he with a smile that seemed to light up beth, was to meet Prince Gortschakoft, and, on it certainly brightened the deep, room ; the the way, Count Kiseleff, the Czar's aid over- eyes of the prince. daik took and accosted him. ?' ' so, lady he asked. Why my 4 I have not yet had an opportunity to con- * I can ' Because,' she answered, even gratulate you, General Gallitzin permit me friends of yours that will take the fing- — name to do so now,' said the count. - ' ers of one hand • I thank you very much. Others more de- Then make me happy by doing so. serving has been less fortunate,' replied the • Count Ruloff, his wife, son and The prince. daughter, four; and I think I will ennoble *It is well to believe that the powers that by elevating him to the position of Ruryk grant honors are the best judges. Your new finger,' said Elizabeth, the smile break- little position will be a trying and, I may add, a a musical laugh. ing into dangerous one,' « has shown his Yes be my faith 1 Ruryk ' I shall endeavor to do my best.' said the many a time at the risk oi his life,' fidelity prince, modestly. Then more thoughtfully : the count. 1 said that every one is certain. I never Of But my * There is one on the list on whom theory is that luck is often better than exer- and never can look as a friend.' have tion. • ?' Elizabeth, with an As a foe, then asked They had reached the entrance to General did not feel. effection of lightness she Gortschaoff's apartments, and the count is feeling • Nay, nor as a foe. There a passed on with a courtier's smile on his lips higher than friendship. It has been with me and anything but love in his heart for the ever since as a boy I saw the baby Elizabeth latest favorite at court. Ruloff in her nurse's arms,' He gallantly • Like a true soldier, you are prompt to raised the white hand to his lips, and he felt the second, said General Gortschakoff, as it fluttering like a bird. Prince Gallitzin, stood before him. The entrance of Vladimeer cansed the cur- • I have no right to other people's time. tain to drop for the time being on what General,' replied the prince. promised to be a scene of tender if not ro- •That was a motto with your grandfather; mantic wooing. I never met a prompter man. We were. 'Ah, Vladimeer, I am glad to see you,' Captains in the same regiment during the hands said the prince, rising and shaking retreat of the French from Moscow, and fiery young Nihilist. though often hungry, and always so cold and with the _ looking « And I am glad to see you— so weary that we felt like tumbling over in the with a meaning well,' repled Vladimeer, snow, yet he never seemed tired. I have known him to wake the exhausted bugler . :,., . glance. , • live temperately, so calls might I work hard and that the be sounded. He was I should appear in of there is every reason why lieutenant-colonel my regiment when we good health. By the way, Vladimeer. do you marched into Paris after the fight at Water- know what our sister here has just been tell- loo, but the fetes and festivities had no charm ing me ?' for him. He was a soldier in every tissue of •What is that, General ? his body. And then your father was a most •Why that she is my friend.* vigorous, rigorous man. I remember when the •And so she is,' said Vladimeer—' he, was sent to Warsaw. He did more to world.' very best friend you have in the quell the Polish revolt than any other man. made a great many enemies, yet he al- Then the very best friend I have in the He ways went unguarded. Thadeus, Count world mil?' sacrifice herself for me. Radowsky, tried to assassinate him ; but the • do it, laughrd Vladimeer. She will _ that, • must be going.' curious part was when the count was I dread to ask her, and 18 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. tried and condemned to death, your father The old man rose unsteadily, but once on pleaded for his life, and the would-be mur- his feet he held himself erect, and walked derer was sentenced to imprisonment for life. with a vigor surprising in a man of over four- Ah, well' —the general— sighed, and replacing score years. his glasses, added ' we old men live more Couut Kiseleff led the way along; a series and more in the past.' of magnificent halls, and through suits of 'It is a pleasure to hear you speak of those these gorgeous apartments for which the so dear to me,' said the prince, evidently Winter Palace is famous. At length they moved by the old man's words and manner, passed through an ornate door, the arch being ' And a pleasure for me to have one near formed by the extended wings of a double- me who can suggest the past. Sit down, headed eagle, two officers of the guard stand- there are General ; yet twenty minutes be- ing with drawn swords at the entrance to the fore the time set for the audience with our imperial reception room. imperial master.' The decorations of this superb apartment The prince sat down, taking his dress were barbaric in their magnificence, but an sword on his lap, and the old man contin- examination of each portion would have ued : shown that, from frescoed arch to the car- ' I feel a more ^han friendly interest in peted floor, the highest art had exhausted you, and am anxious'that men like you shall its beauty and all its invention of decoration. fill places like mine when I have passed away, On a chair at the farther end of the room sat as I soon must, and giant Russia looks for a gentleman in evening dress, with a single strong, steady hands to guide her, through order glittering on his brea t, and a broad the fermented sea of unthinking agitation, blue ribbon over his left shoulder. He would to calm prosperity and merited success. have been a tall man if erect. His face was You should marry," said the general pale and of a melancholy cast, and the abruptly. brown side-whiskers and moustache were ' I have thought so myself,' replied the tinged with gray. He had the high, narrow prince. head that distinguishes the houses of Panlo- You should marry a lady who will bring witch and Romanoff, and the dull eyes that to you wealth and family strength. Such come of introspection. an one I know.' This was Alexander, Czar of all the Rus- ' There are many such,' coughed the sias. About him Courtiers, in resplendent prince. uniforms, were grouped, some of them sold- ' Nay, nay ; there are but very few such as iers who had won renown while yet the stern the Countess Alexandrina, daughter of Ad- Nicholas, father of Alexander, was on the miral Rekoff.' throne. Your niece Walking directly in front of the Czar, Gen- i V ' Aye, my niece, and ncne the worse for eral Gortschakofl", and the prince bowed, and that, I trust.' the latter bent on the right knee, as the for- ' On the contrary, your excellency—all the mer said : better for that. But I have.heard it rumored * By the kindly permission of your majesty, about the court that the Countess Alexan- it becomes my duty and pleasure to present drina Rekoff is already bethrothed,' said the to your majesty General the Prince Wladis- prince, hesitating whether he should speak las Gallitzin of Novgorod.' of his own betrothal to Elizabeth Ruloff. ' We are happy to meet so brave a soldier 'And with whose name, pray, does rumor so faithful a subject,' said the Czar, in a low connect that of my niece ?' queried the old yet sweet, strong voice. He reached out his man. thin white hand, and taking it, the prince ' With that of the noble Count Kiseleff.' raised it to his lips. ' ' So ho i Well, as usual, rum r is mistaken, Rise, General Gallitzin ; from you we ex- Before the well-merited disgrace of General pect great things,' said his majesty : adding, Ruloff there was a boy's and girl's intimacy when the prince hid risen to his feet, and between my niece and the son of an exile stood in a respectful attitude before him : ; but that has, of course, long since vanquished ' The house of Gallitzin has ever been among into thin air, ' and General Gortschakoff the strongest pillars that support our throne. spread out his lean finders and illustrated in We feared that Russia had lost you when pantomime the dissipation of all the love that you left for America, but our heart was re- has ever existed between Vladimeer Ruloff joiced when, at the first sound of w. r, yrti and his niece. fled back, to batde for the honor of the At this moment Count Kiseleff entered and empire.' announced that the Czar's pleasure was to ' I cannot express my joy at knowing that see General the Prince Gallitzin of Novgorod my humble deeds have attracted the atten- at once. tion and won the approbation of your maj- ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 19 of the Countess Ruloff— esiv.' said the prince, with characteristic to the apartments ' Yes,' gasped Pushkeene, ' he was at col- mi d :sty. Vladimeer.' • lege with xi will be our pleasure to see you often, me and ' say," she continued, ' that as chil- and to advance your interests with your They growing strength and deserts.' dren the prince and the beautiful Elizabeth The prince, mindful of his promise to plead Ruloff were betrothed.' * believe it !' snapped Pushkeene. for General Ruloff, was about to speak, when I don't ' is of his word. the Czar arose wearily. It was the signal The prince a man Her his desire that the audience was ended, poverty would only strengthen if The prince, though never presented before he loved her. She is very lovable, I and unfamiliar with the ways of courts, knew believe ?' ' very lovable, indeed,' echoed Push- it would not do to press the claims of his Oh, friend now. Waiting till the Czar had pass- keene. ed out through the ranks of bowed heads, he ' And, I have understood, Mr. Pushkeene, retired with the General Gortschakoff. and your heart was smitten by the fair en- chantress.' said Helen Radowsky, arching • You are the most fortunate man in Rus- fine brows, uttering another sia,' said the old man, as they went back. her and tantal- ' izing little laugh. His majesty as in ill health, but I could see that you created the very impression I hoped 'I think my visits are not objectionable to with an effort for. Get married as soon as possible, and her,' said Pushkeene, at com- there is no position under the throne beyond placency. your reach.' ' The visits of a plebeian cannot long be General Gortschakoff shook hands with welcome, when a prince presents himself as him warmly at parting, and made an engage- a rival. Ah !' she said, with a sigh, * even in ment for the morrow, when the prince should love the many base-born must yield to the dine with him, and see the beautiful Count- noble few.' ess Alexandrina. I'd die first 1' hissed Pushkeene. ?' General Gallitzin drove home with his 'What, for love brain in a whirl, and anything but joy in his 'And he'd die. He ought to be dead, if heart, at the morrow's engagement. the Nihilists made good their threat to keep the office vacated by Ghourko vacant." He lowered his voice and fastened his lit- CHAPTER VIII. tle black, beady eyes on her, with an expres- MICHAEL PUSHKEENE AND HELEN RADOWSKY sion intended to imply that he meant more than- he would dare express in words. HOLD A LONG AND SERIOUS CONSULTATION. 4 1 heard of those threats, and—heard one As Michael Pushkeene sauntered along, was selected to do the work, but ' she hes- twirling his cane and feeling particularly itated, and Pusnkeene interposed, bitter toward the prince, he heard a light ' The one lost heart.' step behind him and felt a light hand on his 'The one thought ot a destruction more' shoulder. Turning suddenly he found him- certain than the thrust of a dagger, more self face to face with a veiled lady. terrible than sudden death ; a destruction to His first thought was, that this lady was life, name, fame, love, prospects, everything 1 one ot his conquests—for he drew great com- 'And that can be brought about in his fort from the belief that he was irresistible case ?' queried Pushkeene, his little eyes with the fair sex ; but the sound of the in- snapping with delight. tense yet even voice of the queen of hearts * It can be brought about as certainly as undeceived him. that you are sitting in that chair. If I had ' I am glad to meet you. Mr. Pushkeene. one man of nerve—one brave, true man, who Are you busy ?' asked Helen Radowsky. would obey me implicitly and ask no ques- ' Never so busy,' he answered, with imi- tions— I would in less than one year so crush tative gallantry, ' that I am not hand and the proud Prince Gallitzin, that the meanest heart at the service of Miss Radowsky.' wretch in our prisons would not feel honored 'You are very kind. Come with me. I in being chained to him. He is favored and will take your arm.' She led him to the mighty at court now ; but if I had this brave house, and into the room, in which she had friend—and I felt like destroying this man — received Vladimeer Ruloff, the evening be- the name Gallitzin, would be stricken from fore. the list of Russian nobles ; and this one Laying aside her fur bonnet and veil Helen should be the last of the race.' Radowsky, with a laugh that chilled Push- In conclusion she clenched her hand, and keene as a plunge-bath in the Neva would her thin lips came together like the lips of a .not have done, said : vice. 'I saw General Gallitzin but now, going * If I was anxious to get him out of the — — VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. way, I know just the man for the place,' 'Our foes!' she laughed. * It would do> said Pushkeene. more to strengthen the cause of the Nihilists ?' • You do than anything that has happened for a gen- •I am certain I do.' eration !' 1 ' It would require a prudent man ; one You amaze me.' f, ' who could comn and hirr e and never be led I can see I do ; but I speak the simple into anything rash or dangerous,' she said, truth nevertheless. You know that Gallit- musingly. zin is the idol of the young soldiery ?' • Oh! such a position would just suit this ' I do.' man,' said Pushkeene, giving his yellow hands 'The tenants, but yesterday serfs, on his a vigorous dry wash. vast estates are numbered by tens of thou- ' When could I see him ?' she asked ab- sands, and so far they have remained true to ruptly. the house of their master. • ' Oh ! any time you make an appointment.' I know that.' • I want to see him now.' ' Can you not see that the sympathies of •Now!' all these will go to the cause for which the • Yes ; there is no time to lose.' prince is convicted, and that hundreds of the ' Well this man would want to know all nobles, dreading that it will be their turn about the plan before he went into it. He'd next, will combine to overthrow the auto- want to know first what danger there would crat whose will is the law of Russia ?' be' to himself, and what the reward in the 'Why,' he exclaimed, with admiration, !' ' event of success ; then he would want to know you are as long-headed as Gortschakofi just what course was going to be taken in ' Thanks for the intention, but you have the case of General Gallitzin.' uttered no compliment. If I were a Nihil- ' ! ! is, ist' she laughed Ha ha ha ! Yes, he in truth, a —— and showed her little white cautiousman, and if his nerve and persistency teeth ' I would bend all my powers to fast- be commensurate, his success is assured. ening suspicion on the people of prominence Now, my dear Mr. Pushkeene,' she said, with who do not belong to the order. That was an increasing confidence in her voice, en- done in the case of Count Ruloff, and it forced by laying her beautiful white hand on drove his son into the Nihilists ranks. Per- his arm, ' let us suppose you are the man who secute a man on suspicion, and the chances is to help to do the work, and I am the one are a thousand to one that he will retaliate who directs.' by giving you grounds for your suspicion.' 4 Yes, let us suppose that—for the sake of 4 You speak wisdom, Miss Radowsky.' saving words,' he acquiesced. 4 1 speak common sense. In the execution ' Very well ; I shall answer your questions of this plan it would be necessary to link the in the order asked. First : if you won, Gen- names and fates of Vladimeer Ruloff, and eneral Gallitzin would cease to be a rival General Gallitzin.' a great point, you will concede.' ' Of Vladimeer the Nihilist and the Czar's • A very great point.' spy,' laughed Michael Pushkeene. •Then you might be enabled, by the act, ' Exactly so, Now, could you, to accomplish to gain the favor of the government, and be your object—to win the object of your love rewarded with honors and wealth, if not sacrifice your friend, Vladimeer Ruloff ?' imnobled.' I could sacrifice my father,' replied Push- • I see, I see,' chuckled Michael Push- keene. keene. 4 As you are his heir, the world might not • The only danger would be in the event of think that a sacrifice. Could you work failure, Of this you can j udge by my answer against Vladimeer ? answer that.' !' ' ' I to the second part of your question : The could course to be taken in the case of General Gal- ' You swear you could follow my direct- implicitly !' litzin,' I can reply to that in one sentence : ions— —in the plan proposed !' Make the authorities believe he is an Nihilist!' ' I swear it ' Make the authorities believe he is an Ni- They shook hands on this understanding, made an engagement for the hilist ! repeated Pushkeene, in amazement, and morrow. Helen Radowsky compressed her lips, nodded her pretty head, and watched her CHAPTER IX. companion. HELEN RADOWSKY SETS TRAPS. • Could it be done ?' asked Pushkeene, after a painful pause. After Michael Pushkeene left, Helen Ra- • As easily as that, if prudence be exer- dowsky sat for some time before the fire, cised,' she said, turning her hand, palm up. with her little white hands firmly clasped ' Oh, you can trust me for prudence. But on her lap, and her unwinking eyes fixed on would it not make the Nihilists our foes ?' the fire. The face, usually so intellectual : ' ' ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 21 beautiful and pretty—even —had an aged a chair for her visitor and sitting down be- •expression ; there was a deep perpendicular side him. line between the brows, and the firmly set ' My master dines out to-night,' said Var- mouth was drawn down, as if trying by witch, ' and I could not resist the opportun- will, to kill a pain at her heart. force of ity to come over and have a talk with you.' ' He looked so like a demigod, so held His voice was very deep, and his utter- me with his wondrous eyes, that my ance deliberate. He was the man who arm became paralyzed, and my mission a charged Michael Pushkeene with treason at I called up the sufferings of failure. my the last Nihilist meeting. dead father, and the vow I made as a child ' I am always glad to see you— and repeated so often as a woman, to be 'I wish you were only gladder,' said Var- avenged on the house of Gallitzin. But I witch, with an amorous growl and a nervous draw the dagger from its sheath could not stroking of his beard. in my breast to bury it in his. I must not ' Let us rule that subject out to night, must never see him again, else go near him, Peter. I have given you hope, and that is it will weaken the purpose of my life.' more than other suitors can say. Were She began stroking her brow and patting I indifferent you should know it.' one of her dainty feet on the rug before the ' That is true Helen, fire. A low, mocking, self-deprecating laugh but I have made a great sacrifice to secure hope,' he burst from her lips as she continued : said. ' ! A great sacrifice ' she ' Am I such a fool as to feel anything like repeated. ' Yes ! do you not th-'nk it is a love— I, who have steeled my heart against sacrifice for the gentleman, Peter men that I might the better carry out the Varwitch, to take a menial's place in the house purpose of my life ? 1 ;m weakest where of the Prince Gallitzin just to gratify ?' I felt sure of my strength. My father's your whims avenger has become a forgetful child in the 'Truly, it is something of a sacrifice, presence of the man whose sire subjected Peter,' she said, with a winsome smile! mine to torture, and threw him, aged, and ' But the man who wins my love must sub- weakened, and poor, and homeless, on the mit to my tests.' ! 'Granted; unfeeling world but why should you care to humiliate the She rose to her feet and spoke, with all man who loves you as I do, by insisting the wonderful intensity of her low, musical on his remaining in a menial posi- voice tion ? • ' it again ! By the blood of Can you not assign I swear my a reason for it, Ptter V fathers, I will not turn to the right nor the she asked, with great seriousness. 'I left until my mission be accomplished ! I can guess,' he responded. feel the Divine mandate ringing through my ' And what do you guess in this case ?' ' — ' brain ' Vevgcance is mine, I will repay ! That you want to have a friend in con- And in my ears still throbs the echo of stant contact with General Gallitzin.' Sinai's thunder, and the awful words. • / will 'You have my reason more clearly and visit the sins of the fathers upon the chil- fully than I could express it.' " dren I * And how long is this thing to last ?' So absorbed was Helen Radowsky in her ' Not very long, I hope,' she answered. own thoughts that she did not become aware ' Till he is out of the way ? of the entrance of the white-capped serving- ' Till I have gained my ends, Peter.* ' ?' maid until that person twice repeated : What are your ends ' in the hall to see Miss • To test you first A gentleman Ra- ; and then to use that dowsky.' test as a means to destroy him to whose A gentlemap, Catherine?' house mine owes its ruin,' she said, with •Yes, Miss.' emphasis. ?' • And did he give his name Peter Varwitch stroked his long, brown •No, Miss.' beard, and still keeping his sharp gray eyes fixed the •What looks he like?' on fantastic heap of coals, he said * 4 Short, stout, full beard, deep voice, aged 1 heard it rumored, some days since, that about thirty,' replied the servant. a desperate woman's hand would have put • Well sketched, Catherine. Show Mr. him out of the way before this. The woman Varwitch in.' is a leader of the Nihilists here—and she The servant retired, and immediately a has a wrong to avenge. Arrangements were man answering her description entered the made for her flight, and she actually went room. to the residence of the prince to enforce her Varwitch, dear friend, I purpose—' Peter •Ah ! Peter my Varwitch paused, and am glad to see you. I was just thinking after looking into her resolute eyes for some seconds, • about you,' said Helen Radowsky, placing a added : But she not only did not ; VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. carry out her threat, but permitted the prince anxious it is to ally itself with the blood of to take her home in his own sleigh.' the noble.' ' I ' All of which I believe to be true,' said have unbounded faith in your ability Helen Radowsky, lightly. Then, in a more and caution.' ' ' Thank you. Peter. Let me return the serious vein ; I heard that th s woman changed her mind, at the last moment, and compliment by saying : I have unbounded determined upon a destruction more ter- faith in your fidelity and devotion.' ' You have Helen ?' he asked, eagerly. rible than sudden death ; while at the same time she could advance the cause to which ' I have.' she is espoused. All this she will explain at 'Then why continue testing me? Why not say the word that will make me happy, the meeting to-night ; and she is certain every man and woman of sense will agree and permit us to work with double the with her.' strength, working, as we can, altogether ?' ' ' As people always agree with her I am Because, Peter, the time has not come. sure they will in this case.' Peter Varwitch You must continue in patience.' looked at her with undisguised admiration, The white-capped servant came in, with a 4 great preliminary coughing, and announced and added, with an altered manner : I understood she failed because Vladimeer that dinner was ready. Helen Radowsky Ruloff put the prince on his guard.' asked her visitor to dine with her, but he ' But did he ?' she asked, quickly. pleaded another engagement, hinting that it would be great pleasure to ' That he did.' a make an ap- ' ?' foi time How do you know pointment some ahead ; and Helen gratified * I heard him, plainly as I hear myself him. • will now. I was concealed near by, ready to I see you to-night,' she whispered, as seize the assassin of my master—when the he was about to withdraw. work was done,' ' At the masked ball ?' 1 Yes, Peter.' ' You heard Vladimeer Ruloff tell the ?' ' well.' prince who I was Very ' remember, Peter, ' Yes, and who your father was. He con- And not a word to a. fessed that he placed his own life in danger soul of our own secrets.' by uttering the warning—and he did ; for I had my pistol raised to shoot him,' said Var- CHAPTER X. witch, throwing off all the third person am- PRINCE GORTSCHAKOFF'S BANQUET. biguity in which he had been indulging. The palaces of St. Petersburg are unsur- ' I am glad you did not. This matter passed by those of any other capital on the must be kept to ourselves for the present. continent. The residences of many of the Vladimeer the Nihilist has sealed his own nobles are magnificent beyond the dreams of fate. Perhaps it is as well, for his destruc- the kings of two centuries ago, and their tion was decided on.' appointments are quite in keeping with their After an embarrassing pause, Varwitch regal splendor. asked : It is not to be wondered at that the igno- ' Are you yet satisfied that Michael Push- rant peasant, in his dim, damp, smoky hovel, keene is a traitor ?' should look up at the noble in his 1 palace as 1 never had any doubt of it,' she replied. \ being of superior creation, predestined to ' And still you try to shield him.' use all beneath him for his own aggrandize- ?' 'To shield him she repeated. ment. It is not to be marvelled at that the ' Yes. You have shut off the investigation intelligent Russian, eating the black bread I proposed.' of poverty, and crushed down by tyrannical ' So I did. Pushkeene is at this time an laws, should raise his matted head and invaluable man. I am setting traps, Peter.' ' demand : By what right do these masters ' Familiar work,' he chuckled. rule, when I and my children are famished !' ' I am setting traps.' she repeated. ' And slaves ?' It is useless to shout ' precedent the duty of springing them will devolve on and ' power !' Every railroad and telegraph Pushkeene -' piercing the steppes of Russia daily diffuses ' I pray,' interrupted Varwitch, ' that you freedom's light from the Occidental vsorld; may have your traps so constructed as to and that light illumines the clouded brain of spring them when Pushkeene is on the in- the patient, down-trodden toiler and sets side.' him to thinking. No law can check thought ' The biggest trap, the most tempting trap, and to think is to be impelled to utterance. is set for himself. It is baited with the The powers may issue ukases, multiply beautiful daughter of a countess. The knouts, and fill the prisons, while keeping ' meaner the blood,' she sneered, the more the executioner busy ; but it is as impossible ; VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 23 for the human will to alter the course of the Every officer not on duty tin the city must seasons as to check the growth of liberty have been invited, for the uniform of every and enlightenment, once they have taken regiment in the service could be seen among root in the human heart. To plow them the guests. golden down is to enrich the soil for a stronger The haired daughters of the North, crop. with their blue eyes and calm bearing, were grouped with the dark-eyed But this is a digression, though called out, daughters of the very naturally, by the subject. South, all life and vivacity, as if the splendor Prince Gortschakoffs palace, near the of these surroundings were common to them. Admiralty, is second only to the palace of The master of this magnificent palace, the the Czar. It is guarded by a detail of im- host of all these happy guests, received his perial troops. It is kept in order by a corps visitors at the further end of the main salon. of liveried 'servants. Its appointments are He looked as calm and self possessed as if all is in unsurpassed in their way ; and transacting business in his private office, keeping with the wealth, power and stand- yet he showed that interest in each one that ing of its mighty master. came near as led him to believe his happi- In the grand banquet hall of this palace ness was a matter of much consideration to the foremost kings of the world have been the great man. felt honored in being ' ? entertained ; and they Has Prince Gallitzin yet arrived ' asked the guests of that wonderful man, who, with General Gortschakoff, addressing Count more than imperial power, and a will super- Kiseleff, who stood near by in conversation human in its force, guided Russia from semi- with the beautiful Countess Alexandrina. semi-civilization ; increasing barbarism to 4 He has just entered,' said the count, domain, and welding, on the ring- her broad glancing down the salon to where General ing of war, her varied races into a anvils Gallitzin stood, a head above the tallest, and mass. homogeneous strikingly distinguished from that host of of the prince was illuminated The palace handsome men by his splendid bearing and to-night till its spires and embattled walls nobl t cast of face. stood out in bold and dazzling relief against ' I have not seen him since I was a little the black back ground of sky. The bril- girl ; how very handsome he is,' said the liant salons, with their paintings, bronzes, countess, her bright gray eyes aglow hangings, chandeliers, and carpets, were with admiration, as the prince advanced to ablaze with light, and alive with beauty and pay his respects to his host. chivalry. 'I feared,' said General Gortschakoff, Here art had set the seasons at defiance after he had introduced the prince to his for though the snow lay six feet deep on the niece, and critically watched the expression level without, the palms of tropical India of their faces, ' that something had and the giant ferns of the Amazon could be detained seen through the open conservatory, in you.' 'Yes; an unexpected message whose huge tanks rested the broad leaves of connected with the service. I regret that I the Victoria Regia. Bronze vases of price- have lost a minute of this pleasure,' said the prince, less worth and exquisite workmanship were with a courtly bow to his host, and capped with brilliant exotics, that filled the a gallant glance at the beautiful girl by his side. air with a dreamy suggestiveness of balmy nights in sunny lands. He has all the ways of his father.' I can Out of sight, in a gallery that seemed miles see, they are prepossessed at once," thought away, so delusive and enchanting was the the old diplomat. effect, the band of the Imperial Guard was He arose from his chair, and motioning to stationed, and the music floated down like a Count Kiseleff, said : celestial adjunct to the glories of this en- ' Your arm my dear Count, I am not trancing terrestrial vision. feeling strong to-night.' Here were two princes of the royal house Count Kiseleff was a born courtier, and so and a son of England's queen and India's affected to be delighed that General Gorts- empress. Here were the representatives of chakoff should ask for his arm, but a pang every government with which Russia holds of jealously shot through his heart, leaving intercourse, clad in the resplendent court in its track the seeds of bitter hate for the robes of their respective States ; their breasts man who was as evidently the great states- covered with jeweled orders that denoted man's favorite as he was the admired of his their sovereign's appreciation. The war brother officers and the idol of the ladies ships, frozen up at Cronstadt, must have who had met him. poured into the Gortschakoff palace their General Gallitzin promenaded with the officers young and old, for patches of blue Countess Alexandrina, until he became and gold met the eye wherever it turned. aware that every group in the salons was ! 24 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. watching them, and of course making them tlis.t one strong inducement for me to take objects of flattering comment. the position I now occupy, was the hope 'You can see and hear, General,' said the that I might be able to get another hearing fair countess, ' that your fame has preceded for Count Ruloff. I am deeply interested you ; and that you have stormed the hearts in his family. of Saint Petersburg as effectually as you did ' If you would direct me, there is nothing the redoubts at Plevna.' I am not willing to do. But you know how 4 It is pleasant to think one is not wholly unapproachable my grand-ancle Gortschakoft unworthy regard ; but I can assure you I is.' ' would as soon face a battery of guns as the I am aware of that ; but why can we not battery of those many beautiful eyes. Let unite for this purpose ?' asked the prince. us seek a retired place, where we can sit down ' There is no reason why we shonld not,' and talk undisturbed,' said the general. she answered. The countess led him to a niche in which ' I believe conspirators are always sup- was an S shaped tete-a-tete, and said, as they posed to be plotting evil ; let us make an ex- ?' sat down : ception by plotting good. What say you • I am so glad that you have not forgotten the prince extended his hand. me.' 4 1 agree,' she said, placing her hand in ' How could I V he asked. his. • Oh, very easily. Twelve years is a long They were in this interesting attitude time ; and boys of thirteen are only a trifle when Count Kiseleff suddenly made his ap- more interesting than girls of seven or eight. pearance and took in the situation at a You remember where we met ?' glance. He stamered out an apology and • At Count Ruloff's,' .replied the general. withdrew precipitately. 4 • And the occasion ?' There,' said the countess, when they ' ' The occasion ! Yes, let me recall. I were alone again. You have done me a think it was Vladimeer's eleventh or twelfth marked service.' birthday.' 'I?' •Your memory is excellent,' she said, with 'Yes, you.' 4 a bewitching smile. Then she asked, with 1 am delighted to hear it, but must con- * a sigh in her voice : Have you seen the fess I am not aware of how it was done,' Rulloffs since your return to Saint Peters- said the perplexed prince. burg ?' 4 Then I must explain,' Lushed the coun- 4 ' I have. I could not think of forsaking tess. Count Kiseleff has been pleased to old friends, just because the world has. I rank himself among my admirers, and to have always felt that the count was the vic- show marked jealously at anything like tim of some base conspiracy. rivalry. He saw our hands clasped, and 4 Your heart is quite equal to your me- putting his own construction on the act, he mory. I feel just as you do, but have will keep aloof from me henceforth. He been afraid to say so,' said the countess. would not daie to enter the lists against • You must know that it is considered treas- Prince Gallitzin.' onable to say a word in defence of the Ru- ' My dear Countess, said the Prince, if loffs. I, of course, say nothing, and the you be not mistaken, you lose a troublesome consequence is my heart has been for some admirer to make me a foe.' tlm; full of this kind of treason. You see 4 General Gallitzin is not afraid of such Ian placing myself in your power,' she foes,' said the countess, rising and taking laughed. his arms. 4 You can rely on me. But seriously, do you 'Not afraid, perhaps; yet a foe is none not think something can be done to help the more the disirable that we do not fear the Ruloffs? No charge has been brought him. And then,' he added, archly, 4 I do against the countess, nor against her daugh- not relish being blamed without good ter—' cause.' 4 No, General, nor against Vladimeer, said ' We are united — to aid the Ruloffs. Hark the young lady with spirit. the band is playing a march ; that means 4 Nor against my life-long friend, Vladi- supper. You must continue your escort.' meer,' rejoined the prince. And the prince conducted her to the ban- 4 I wish I knew what could be done. I quet hall. have been afraid to speak to any one, though I have thought over very many plans and CHAPTER XI. have written my sympathies to —to Vladi CONSPIRATORS IN COUNCIL. meer,' said the countess. 4 I am very glad, my dear Countess, that 4 1 wish you to congratulate me, said Vladi- you suggested this subject. I must confess meer Ruloff, as he sprang into the elevated VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 25 apartment where his mother and sister were good father coming in, in the last scene, to sewing and began to kiss them and wring bless us and remain with us forever," their hands. 'Congratulate me, for lam The room grew brighter, and the humble !' at last successful meal to which the three sat down soon after !' ' Successful exclaimed both. seemed to them more like a banquet than ' clerkship,* anything they Yes ! I have secured the had eaten for a long time. It •With the American merchant ?' asked his had been many a day since a smile was seen on mother. the troubled face of Madam Ruloff, but now ' With the American merchant, dear she beamed on her children, and looked mother. It seems that Mr. Jonathan Gush- younger and happier than since that day ing met General Gallitzin in America, where that so crushed her life. they became friends. Yesterday they met in The repast was but just concluded when Saint Petersburg for the first time. Mr. Ruryk the Cossack, made his appearance Cushing mentioned my name, and spoke of with a basket of luscious fruit for Madam me as an applicant ; whereupon, with his Ruloff, and a note for Elizabeth. That note usual earnestness and generosity, the general was more precious to the beautiful girl than advocated my abilities and fitness for the all the fruit and flowers and precious stones office of translator and correspondent, and in the world. It had all the effect of the so it comes about that I have carried off the fabled enchanter's wand, for it conveyed her position from twenty competitors. No more into the presence of the man whom she loved sewing for money, sister ; no more eating with all the fervor of her pure, gentle heart. the black bread of poverty. Three hundred ' And you are going out again to-night, roubles a month will enable us to live in'com- Vladimeer ?' asked the madam, in a voice fort and in better quarters. We must get shaded with disappointment, as she noted other apartments at once !' her son's preparations. Ruloff snapped his fingers, ' Yes, dear mother And Vladimeer ; but once I am down waved his fur cap, and danced about like a at hard word, which will be every day after delighted boy. to-morrow, I will remain with you during ' 1 thank God,' said Madam Ruloff, fer- all my unemployed hours. I go to-night to vently, ' for this evidence of His goodness. keep an engagement made some time ago,' It comes like the gleam of a star through the said Vladimeer, standing beside her, cap in blackness of a long-clouded sky. hand. ' Now that I am getting used to work,' ' I have so dreaded, Vladimoer, that a said Elizabeth, her blue eyes looking larger sense of the wrongs we have endured, acting for their rings of moisture, and her white on your strong, impulsive nature,' might teeth gleaming like pearls in a setting of hare led you to seek the companionship of — I getting rubies ' now that am ueed to the the revolutionary spirits, that, like moles, work, I rather like it. Of course, 1 am glad work blindly and out of sight, sapping the for all our sakes, but I am particularly glad pillars of the government, and never dream- for yours, dear brother.' ing that if they bring those pillars down they ' For my sake, Elizabeth V who have wrought the ruin will be killed 1 you will be happier for and buried where they Yes, Vladimeer ; stand. Remember having something besides our misfortunes to that while it is horrible to suffer under a occupy your mind. My work his been a false accusation, it is trebly horrible to run blessing to me in that respect,' replied into a position that makes the accusation Elizabeth. merited.' ' ' And,' added Madam Ruloff, it will pre- ' I quite agree with you, my mother, nor vent your having so much of the company will I deny that I have associated, in my of that very undesirable young person, Mr. desperate hours, with the people you spoke Michael Pushkeene.' of. But you mistake if you think the feel- * I ing of discontent You are both right. must confess I and the spirit of revolt is am growing weary of Pushkeene. He never confined to the toilers out of sight. There is rank could be congenial, but he sympathized not a below the throne that is not with us in our troubles, which is a great disaffected. Nihilism, as it is called for the he is a man of more ordin- want of a better name, is rife • deal ; and then, in the army ary intelligence, though a little mysterious it permeates the Greek church, from the and apparently sly. I have been anxious to humblest sacristan up to the head ot the it clings drop him ever sinee I learned that he aspir- order; to the navy—out of sight, to the hand of a woman who could not be sure- but it clings like ed to barnacles ; it is in even tolerate him. But let him go," said whispered the schools, and hint sd at in ' I feel salons; Vladimeer, waving his hands. now the and every violent attempt at as if the curtain were about to rise and dis- suppression deepens the malignity and cover an improved situation : the brave, spreads the disease, with which even the : Vladimeer, the nihilist. throne is contaminated. But do not fear tall man disguised in a mask and black for me. I shal be too busy working for my gown. The same questions were asked and dear ones, and praying for the return of the answered as on a former occasion. They went absent, to care for the form of government, into the ante-room, and from the honeycomb or its rights or wrongs.' in the wall from both sides, and the rolling ' It makes me happy to hear you say so,' back of the partition, which closed behind said the madam, taking his arm and walking them as they entered the apartment, about with him to the door. which sat, or were grouped, very many Vladimeer descended to the narrow street, maskers. and was making his way towards the 'We have drawn,' said a hoarse-voiced barrack-like house—where it will be remem- man, coming forward. ' You are too late to bered the maskers played a curious game en take an active part in the proceedings. New Year's night —when two men came out ' It will be just as improving to listen,' from the cover of an archway, and one of said Vladimeer, taking a chair. them addressed him in the unmistakable The deep-voiced man, who was none other voice of Michael Pushkeene. than Varwitch, went to the head of the table, ' Ah, my dear Ruloff, I expected you and wrapping to attract attention said: would pass this way and waited. This is I drew the ace of hearts to-night. The my friend, Mr. Neuman, from Moscow,' fifty-two will take their places.' said Pushkeene, presenting a man who Fifty-two men and women—Varwitch mak- looked enough like himself to be a twin ing fifty-two —held up their cards, and sat brother. down before corresponding cards on the Mr. Neuman, from Moscow, said some- table. thing about a great pleasure, and feeling Varwitch, as was the custom in assuming very happy at meeting the son of the dis- the chair of presiding officer, made a speech tinguished but unfortunate Count Ruloff. reviewing public and socialistic affairs since 4 1 presume, from your name, Mr. Neu- the last meeting, and cautioning the mem- man, you are a German,' said Vladimeer, bers to greater secrecy. resuming his walk by the side of that gen- I fear,' he said, ' that through the reck- ' No, sir, I feel proud to say I am a Rus- lessness of friends, spies have been admitted sian. My ancestors, however, like the an- into our camp ; it is so in other places. We cestors of some of the best in the empire, should guard against this The man who were Germans,' said Neuman. comes here ns a spy takes his life„ in his ' By my faith,' laughed Vladimeer, ' if it hands, and should ease him of the care were a crime to have German blood in one's of a thing thac is dangerous to us.' veins the imperial family of Russia, and for A murmur of applause went round the the matter o! that, the Royal family of Eng- table, and the groups in the back-ground land, and of nine-tenths of our monarchical showed their approval. countries, would be guilty beyond hope of ' I am now ready to receive reports,' said salvation.' the ace of hearts, sitting down and trying to ' ' Yes,' snickered Pushkeene ; my mother hide his beard under his mask and inside his was a German. But there is a stronger tie gown. than nationality ; the bond that unites free- A petite figure rose, and holding up the men against tyranny ; Mr. Neuman is one of ten of diamonds, to distinguish herself, us.' This information was given with said whispered emphasis. ' I speak for the committee appointed to * Is Mr. Newman going with us ?' asked investigate certain charges against one Mich- Vladimeer. ael Pushkeene.' 'Oh, certainly! I shall vouch for him, It was the low, thrilling voice of Helen though he could work his way into any Radowsky. meeting from Finlan to the Ukraine,' replied ' And what is yjur report ?' asked Van- Pushkeene. witch. ' Let us not talk about these matters on ' I report with pleasure that the charges the street,' said Newman, cautiously. ' The are unfounded. We have found the accus- city is filled with spies.' ed to be a good man, a strong friend and ' Aye, the land is filled with them,' rejoin- a patroit, in the best sense of that abused ed Vladimeer. word,' said the ten of diamonds. They reached the barrack-like house, and Michael Pushkeene and his friend Neu- as on New Year's night, the door swung man, from Moscow, applauded, while a tall open as they approached and closed behind man with red beard, who sat about the mid- them, when they had entered the wide, dim dle of the table—he was the ace of hearts hall. They ascended the cataract of stairs, the night before—showed disapproval by and in the upper hall were challenged by a coughing and muttering incoherently. VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 27 their finding relief by shouting at the top of •I will state,' said the presiding officer, suc- their voices, as many wished to do. • that action in the case of Ghourko's the meeting broke up, the people cessor has been postponed for the present.' When went out by twos, Pushkeene and his friend 4 said a slender person, I have to state,' Neuman, of Moscow, leaving together. speaking in boyish tones and holding up the As Vladimeer rose, half-determined that of spades,' that it has been decided to ace this would be his last visit, though his feel- the very fountain head of our Strike at ings were more bitter than ever against the wrongs.' authorities, the tall man with the red beard 4 In what way ?' asked Varwitch. took his arm and whispered : said the boyish 'By killing the Czar P ' I am Captain Freehoff, let us leave to- voice, with thrilling emphasis. gether : ?' ' decided this And who has Vladimeer greeted him like an old friend r • I have,' replied the youth. and they went out arm in arm. •You!' 4 Yes, I. Do you doubt my courage or my XII. power !' CHAPTER ' pru- doubt neither ; but I do doubt the I THE CONSPIRATORS STRIKE THE FIRST BLOW. dence of such an act— at this time,' replied Varwitch. 'Well,' said Captain Freehoff, when he ' ' with me,' said the youth, a It is not and Vladimeer reached the street, and were of prudence.' question waling on the unfrequented side, ' what did ?' • Of what then you think of the meeting ?' * vengeance,' he responded, and his Of ' It gave me the horrors,' replied Vladi- eyes flashed through the black mask, and meer. * I do not think I will attend again.* white hands were ground in desperation. his ' That is about the conclusion I have "' ' repeated the assembled peo- Vengeance reached.' Captain Freeman stopped before awful whisper. ple, in an reaching the corner of the next street, and ' Aye, vengeance ! I had an only brother, drawing Vladimeer into the shadow of a. soldier and an officer in the service a brave ' neigh boring house, he continued : You know of the Czar. I loved him as I loved my own that I have ever been the friend of my old more,' said the youth, in life—but he is no commander, Count Ruloff. and his family ?' a cho king voice. • I am sure of that, Captain,' replied Vladi- 4 !' gasped the people, like a No more meer. ghostly echo. 4 I am not an alarmist, but I keep my eyes ' is no more,' repeated the youth. ' He He open. If I could point to an actual, manifest charged with treason, of which he was was danger, I would warn you at once, but I can- ; tried by a court, convened to con- innocent not. Without being absolutely certain, vict, that the army might be taught a les- however, I feel that you have enemies, and was found guilty and sentenced to son. He that they are setting a trap for you.' death.' ' Enemies !' repeated Vladimeer. ' !' To death like another echo. 4 Yes, enemies. Do not ask me, for I do ' My poor, broken-hearted mother came on not positively know. But beware of Heleto here from Odessa, and she and I, yesterday, Radowsky and Michael Pushkeene. threw ourselves before the Czar and begged The captain wrung Vladimeer's hand, and for the life of the condemned man, then in without waiting for another word, turned the dungeons of Cronstadt. The Czar and went back in the direction from which spurned us ! the Guards drove us away with they had come. their swords.' 4 This certainly is mysterious,' thought He clutched at his throat as if strangling. Vladimeer, as he walked homeward, with * ;' And you got no mercy asked Helen downhead, ' and yet I have had my fears of Radowsky. Miss Radowsky. She is a demon. Well, ' ! This morning my brother was Mercy well ! I shall go to work to-morrow,' and hanged like a dog, on the battlement of while General Gallitzin uses his great power Cronstadt, and the news of his death was for the return of my father. I will earn the last thing my mother heard on earth. I enough to keep the dear mother and sister right to decide.' have a above want ; and it may be that I will be The youth sat down, and a chilling silence able, now and then, through the general, to of some minutes followed. get a glimpse of Alexandrina. I am sure she Other stories of outrages were told, until is true and will respect me the more for my the meeting had worked itself up to a demon- efforts.' like fury, all the stronger that prudence The tender and ever-delightful subject of forced them to restrain, and even prevented the beautiful countess was running through : VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. his mind, when he reached the door opened the handcuffs on a low, broad, iron-studded into the high, lean structure of which he door. There was a rattling of chains and lived. an ominous jarring of bolts inside; then, He took out his key, and was about to with a dismal squeak, the black door opened insert it in the lock, when he became sudden- inwards, and a flood of yellow light poured ly aware that a man stood on either of the out. entrance. The door swung shut behind them with Before he could ask what they wanted one a dull shud, and Vladimeer found himself in of the men stepped forward and asked : a square room, benches around the wall, * Are you Vladimeer, the son of Count Ru- and a roaring stove in the centre. On these loff, the exile ?' benches a number of uniformed men were ' I am." stretched in full length, their muskets being The other man stepped out, and lay- stacked in a corner. On the side, opposite ing a heavy hand on Vladimeer's shoulders, the door, a swarthv, hairy man sat at a desk, he said with a lard lamp throwing its light on a pon- 'Vladimeer Ruloff, I arrest you in the derous book. The book must have been in name of his imperial majesty, Alexis, Czar great danger of escape, for it was chaimed of all the Russias.' to the desk ; and for its further intimidation The words came to Vladimeer with all the a pile of handcuffs glistened near by. force of crushing blows. At length he man- Whom bring you here?' demanded the aged to ask : swarthy giant, as he jabbed an iron pen into ?' ' By whose order am I arrested an iron bottle buried like a little black sea ' By the order of General the Prince Gal- in the desk, and prepared to write down the litzin of Novgorod, chief of his majesty's answers in the imprisoned book. secret police,' replied the man. ' Vladimeer, son of the exiled Count Ru- * There must be a mistake.' loff,' replied one of the secret police. * We make no mistakes We obey orders ' Vladimeer, son of the exiled Count Ru- Come quietly, or we shall use these.' The loff,' repeated the swarthy giant, as he wrote man drew from his pocket a pair of down the words. handcuffs, and shock them before Vladimeer's ' His age ?' face. The policeman, not being able to reply, 1 I will go with you without resistance, nudged Vladimeer and whispered : ' for I have done no wrong ; but first I desire Answer the other questions yourself.' to speak with my mother and sister, who ' I am twenty-three,' replied Vladimeer. ?' lodge in this house.' • Where born We cannot allow it. Come.' • At Cronstadt.' Can I not send them word ?' pleaded Vladi- ' Occupation ?' 4 meer, * that my absence may be explained ?' Interpreter and commercial correspon- ' With your absence we have nothing to dent.' ?' do. Your presence is demanded at the • By whom employed Prison of the Exiles. Come.' ' The American house of Mr. Jonathan Vladimeer cast a glance up at the light Cushing.' • ?' buring in the upper stery ; it told him that Residence his mother was up and waiting for him, as • Number ten Little Neva Prospekt.' was her habit, no matter how late he came •Married?' home. Then he turned with the feeling that •No.' he was suffering from a horrid nightmare, • Relatives ?' and walked off between the police. 1 Mother and sister.' They escorted him across the Troiskoi • Friends to whom you could apply for Bridge, and through the gloomy, vault-like proof of character if required ?' gate that marked the entrance to the prison. • General the Prjnce Gallitzin of Novgor- The dark, massive walls, pierced by grat- od.'replied Vladimeer. ed windows like port-holes, rose gloomy and ' General Gallitzin !' repeated the police. gray around a central court, into which tier •The Prince Gallitzin!' muttered the over tier of black doors opened. It seemed swarthy secretary, raising his shaggy head the temple of darlcness, and silence.and death. and looking at the prisoner for the first Cold as it was on the streets, here it seemed time. many degrees colder. A stunted tree, like 'I so said.' a distorted skeleton, raised its arms in the • With what crime are you charged ?' centre of the court, and through the embat- •That I know not.' replied Vladimeer. tled coping of the walls the wintry wind 1 But I do know that I have been guilty ot howled and groaned like a giant in torture. no wrong.' One of the men rapped three times with ' He is charged with treason against our : VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. the detec- self along it in full length as the echo of the imperial master, the Czar,' said as spokesman. retreating policemen's laughter died out in tive who had been acting •Charge—Treason,' replied the secetary, the distance. and dashing off the word with the rapidity accustomed to writing it. dexterity of one CHAPTER XIII. take him • That will do. Search him, then on account of previous to cell 147 The trial, IN THB DUNGEON—IN THE GARRET. for three days.' cases, cannot take place The secretary closed the book, and sucked Had all the mental conditions been favor- with a savage relish. able, Vladimeer Ruloff could the tip of the iron pen have have The policemen, after emptying Vladimeer's slept in that damp, mephitic dungeon cell. side, and were Dockets, formed on either The air was musty and poisonously impure. refusing to move, about to lead him off, but There was no draft, and yet the place was he asked hyperborean in temperature. But he did . mother • with his surroundings. Can I not communicate my not heed The physical ?' torture was quite overwhelmed and at once sunk out of sight in the torrent of • No,' snapped the secretary. anguish that surg- ?' brain heart. • Nor with General Gallitzin ed through and •No.' He could not hide from himself that he •When can I?* was a conspirator, banded against the gov- • answer. I give and re- ernment with other discontented spirits That I cannot ; nor power cord information, but have neither the could he upbraid himself with his conduct, nor the wish to grant favors,' said the savage. in view of the treatment his family had re- Vladimeer Ruloff was marched off, but he aeived at the hands of a merciless tyranny. that he would it horrible to did not hold down his head— Yet was think that just as his if going to his foot was on the threshold of a not, could not have done new life, that promised healthful employment for himself long, dismal competency for his ^They led him through many and a loved ones, that grated doors open- this trap'should be sprung, leaving dimly lit halls, into which death or and from behind which banishment to stare him in the face for ed on either hand, ; groans and the rattle of chains could be from the powers that placed him in this heard and the hollow coughing of prisoners dungeon he could expect no mercy. drawing up the Through the long black hours, in whose lungs Death was so in keep- nevitable warrants of release. ing with his clouded life, he bewildered—not to Vladimeer his own fate but that of his The fall of their feet sounded — mother and on a lower- sister, who would now be left like first clods of earth dropping alone in the world. ed coffin. They stopped at the end of the hall par- His loyal heart never once harbored a thought against his friend, ticularly cold and gloomy, where two men General Gallitzin. The prince was not responsible sat dozing on a bench. for, did not, musket in his hand could not know of this outrage. One of the men had a ; he the other carried at his girdle two immense And when thought of the gallant bunches of keys. The man with the keys soldier, hope came, with the promise of re- future security rubbed his eyes, rose and asked : lease and from arrest. ?' ' General Gallitz.n,' thought • What is it Vladimeer, • is all powerful with the • Cell 147.' replied the spokesman. Czar. He is the idol Saint Petersburg • 147.' The man fumbled over the labels of at this time, and attached to the keys, and finding the right deserves to be. He will hear of my arrest, one, he slipped it from its hook, waved it and come to my relief. I am a fool in des- : pair, and I would not, had like' a grim baton, and said I calmly con- 'This way.' .-'•.;', sidered my position before.' He inserted the key in the door near by, Drowning men to catch the straws, and even the lightning that and with a considerable expenditure of heralds destruction is one strength, turned it in the lock and pushed in a relief to wrapped in darkness. Vladi- the door, a puff of damp, sickening air rush- meer Ruloff's despair gradually vanished, so the long ing out as he did so. but not Russian night—long in the ' You must go in there. You will find a enough illuminated palaces, but in- terminable to the bench to lie on." hundreds of groaning, The policemen pushed Vladimeer in, and coughing victims shut up in the cells, buried the door closed behind him, leaving him in alive in this catacomb above ground. Vladimeer took no a suffocating atmosphere and a Stygian note of time. Now and darkness. then he heard the guard, pacing the corridor He groped for the bench, and threw him- outside, and the bang of the musket butt on 30 VLADIMEER. THE NIHILIST. the stone floor when the round came to an The lard lamp burned lower, and threaten- end. ed soon to lea e her in darkness, if not re- He was surely dozing, though at first it plenished. She left it in the window, and seemed as if any sleep but that of death were went back to a little room where Elizabeth impossible in such a place. He heard a lay, but not asleep. grating in the lock, and started up, just as ' Vladimeer has not yet returned, my, the door opened, and the flash ot a lantern daughter,' said Madam Ruloff, with a half cut, like a bunch of lance blades, through suppressed sob. 4 the solid blackness of the cell. The lantern I know it, my mother. I have not slept, was fastened to the belt of a muffled figure. but have listened all through the night. who stood like a giant silhouette in the open- Come, lie down. I fear no danger to him. ing. Doubt not but he will return by daylight ' Are you awake ?' asked the man in the with some good excuse,' said Elizabeth, with door. well-assumed cheerfulness. • Awake ! Who could sleep in- such a 1 But he never stayed out so late before. I place?' asked Vladimeer. may be unduly nervous, Elizabeth. I hope • You'll sleep comfortably enough when I am.' you get used to it. Here's your breakfast.' ' I feel very sure you are, dear mother. The man set a leaf of hard, black bread Come lie down, for the night is cold, and filled water, and a brown pitcher, with on you must be suffering,' urged EJizabeth. the end of the bench, and was about to As if she had never heard her daughter's withdraw, when Vladimeer called to him. words, Madame Ruloff continued : ' Stop my friend, I would speak with you,' ' It just • I have not time. My friends forbid my was such a night, one year ago, speaking with prisoners,' replied the man, as that your father left to dine with a friend. he fumbled with the key. He came not back that night, and it was ' I am Vladimeer, the son of Count Ruloff, days before we learned his fate.' 1 True, darling and the friend of your master, General mother ; but General Gallitzin,' s id Vladimeer, speaking hurried- Gallitzin, was not then at the head of the secret police,' rejoined ly. ' If you get word to the gen ral that I Elizabeth. am here, I can promise you a reward.' ' And if he were, hispowe n.ight be futile before the edict of • Why get word to him, when you are here the Czar. Was not your father as rich, as honored, by his order ? Bear your imprisonment as trusted, before with patience.' his arrest as is General Gallitzin now ?' ' The man half closed the door, and was in True, my mother ; but he occupied a dif- the act of shutting it, when he stopped, put ferent place.' ' in his head, and said : Place, honor, wealth, or service, count ' So you are Vladimeer, the son of Count not in the eyes of our masters, The breath Ruloff ?' of the meanest spy in the realm is powerful ' I am.' to tarnish the brightest reputation below the 'It is very curious—might not har pen throne. Oh !' she wailed, with hands clasp- aga n in a thousand years,' sai 1 the man, ed, as she fell on her knees before the bed, musingly. 1 God's face is averted from Russia, and ruin ' What is curious ?' crouches in every home, and the black wings ; Why, that you should be in this cell. of death beat the air above We every house ! call it ' the fatal cell,' for never a man that Better be an ignorant peasant, in a more occupied it was declared innocent on trial. favoured land, than to bask in the royal a so This was where your father was confined up favor of land uncertain as this ! The to the hour that he was sent to Siberia,' only security here is in the grave ! The dar- Vladime r fell back on the bench with a ing of the Russian soldier, the indifference gasp, The door closed ; and the man went to life of the people, is due to the living are to ! on to open other cell doors, and give to their death we forced endure Oh ! my suffering occupants their daily allowance of son ! my son ! my Vladimeer! if harm has black bread and water. come to you this night my heart will break! While Vladimeer lay in his cell, his mother I can no longer endure this torture ! Better with increasing fear and anxiety, sat by the that I could curse Russia and its ruler—and window in the upper story, straining he: die!' eyes down the narrow street, in the hope of ' Do not give way, dear mother I' sobbed catching a glimpse of her son, and bending Elizabeth, drawing her mother's head her head at every gust of wind that shook the nearer, and kissing her. ' I will dress and crisp snow from the roof in expectation of go out. I may learn something from the catching the footfall—as familiar as his police. I could go to Michael Pushkeene's; voice. perhaps he could tell me something about ' — VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 31 Vladimeer. But I see no cause for yom [ don't feel uneasy. He often remains out great anxiety.' ill night.' Elizabeth was about to rise, but her ' He has been of late much w'th my son. rru ther held her back. f thought that he might tell me why Vladi ' No, my child, stay you here. Hark ! th< neerc'id not come home.' bells are striking six. It is morning. I wil ' I don't think Michael could do that, go out, and return before breakfast.' even if he was here. When a man is miss- Madame Ruloff threw on her hood and ng now his friends need not be long in doubt mantle— relics of better days— and beton as to what has become of him,' wheezed tl e Elizabeth could protest again she w s old man. ?' gone. ' What do you mean It was unutterably cold, wretched and ' I mean, madam, that if a man is expect- dreary in the streets. The lamps winked ed home and dosen't come, it is apt to be drowsily, as if quite exhausted by then that the Czar's officers have taken charge efforts to keep alight so long. The fatigued of him.' policemen, with their collars turned up The old man set the candle on the counter, huddled in the shelter of protecting door- and rubbed his yellow, talon-like hands. ways, and mechanically stamped their heavy And in his attempt to smile he made a feet, as if to make sure they had not turned ghastly exhibition of his long, yellow teeth. to lumps of ice. In covered alleys the fam- ' Have you any idea where I could find ished dogs and ragged beggers crouched to ycur S( n ?' asked the madam, taking a step gether for mutual warmth, and shivered and toward the door. whined as the wind, in very spitefulness, ' Not the slightest, Madam Ruloff. But dashed handsful of cutting snow into their if Michael knew you wanted him he lean faces, and then went howling like a de- would fly. He is deeply attached to your lighted night demon through the chimney family, and never wearies— in talking about tops. your beautiful daughter A few peddlers, of frozen milk and frozen Had the maiden waited to listen, the fish, crept stiffly along with their burdens. garrulous old man would have kept on in- The horses of the gens-d'armes at street definitely ; but the moment he mentioned corners seemed quite shrunken and hump- his son's attachment she turned and left, backed from the excessive cold, and their with a bow and a glance several degrees riders looked frozen into torpor and an utter more freezing than the keen atmosphere. indifference to their duties. She decided to get breakfast, and then to Frightened, yet urged on by the stimulus find General Gallitzin, and invoke his aid. of the, to her, all important mission She knew, but gave no thought to the fact, Madam Ruloff walked with a rapidity that the house of every recently arrested that seemed marvelous in contrast with the prisoner was watched, and that while any groping movements of other pedestrians, pers n might leave unchallenged, those en- until she came to the dingy, squat house tering was subject to arrest. She was about with the sign above it, ' Michael Pushkeene, to ascend to her lodgings when two men Pawnbroker.' the same two that had arrested her son In answer to her knocking a little window stepped out from the shadows, and one of like a lid to a sightless eye, opened under the them said : eves, and a night-caped head was pushed ' This house is marked, madam. You are cautiously out, while an asthmatic voice de- our prisoner. Make no outcry. manded : ' Who's down there, at this hour ?' CHAPTER XIV. I —Madame Ruloff. Is your son in ?' No. Wait ; I will come down.' HELEN RADOWSKY RECEIVES A REPORT AND The head was withdrawn, and the eyelid MAKES ANOTHER dropped. In a few minutes the pawn-shop MOVE. door opened, and old Michael Pushkeene, The house in which Helen Radowsky like ghoul in lo king a an ill-fitting, second- lived, with her servant, belonged to the gov- stood, candle hand shroud, in hand, before ernment, and was one of a number of the her. same kind of structures occupied by teachers ' !' ' ! in Come in Come he chattered. It and musicians in the employ of the court. is fearfully cold, and I am fearfully deli- It might be said to be in the shadow of one cate.' of the royal residence, and she was in daily into the Stepping pawn-shop, Madam intercourse with the children of the royal Euloff as'v-ed : frmily. A strange situation, truly, for a Was your son heme last night V woman who hated Russia as she did ; but it • N-n- no,' stammered the old man. 'But v as by no means an exception. Nihilism — ' 32 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. had warmed its way even closer to the ous weapon ; to prevent that danger it must throne ; and many of the most trusted re- be destroyed. But tell me, have you seen cipients of imperial favour were secretly Madame Ruloff ?* working for its overthrow. ' I just came from there. Got in by a The afternoon following the arrest of letter from the Captain of the Little—Neva Vladimeer Ruloff, Helen Radowsky entered Division. Madam Ruloff is arrested her house, the professional duties of the day ' Madam Ruloff arrested !' ' ended, and prepared to renew that work, Yes ; she went out to seek her son, and that was the ruling motive of her life. was seized on her return.' She was about to pass the cozy little-sit- ' I am sorry for that, but it cannot be ting-room, when the white-caped servant helped. It is one of the sad necessities of wb'spered : my plan,' said Helen Radowsky, with some- * A gentleman awaits Miss Radowsky.* thing like a sigh. * Who ?' ' I saw the beautiful Elizabeth,' continu- * Mr. Michael Push keen e.' ed Pushkeene. 'The gens-d'armes are * How long has he been here ?' stationed about the house and won't let her ' An hour.' leave. She is in great tribulation.' Helen Radowsky entered the sitting-room, ' And you,' said Helen, with an arch and Michael Pushkeene rose to meet her. smile, ' did all in your power to make her I V/ell Doctor, what news ?' asked Helen, happy.' after she had submitted her hand to his ' Yes, and I am sorry I undertook it.' clammy grasp. • Sorry ?' * Good news I* glorious news T replied ' Aye, sorry. I never dreamt she had so Pushkeene. much scorn and temper. Had a Baltic ice- Laying aside her cloak and hood, and so berg suddenly turned into a moving volcano, bringing to view her rosy face and flashing emitting fire and brimstone, I could not eyes, she asked, as she sat down : have been more astonished. She blamed 'What is this glorious news?' me ; she scorned me ; she ordered me, in- ' Vladimeer is out of the way,' chuckled dignantly, to leave and never again to show Pushkeene. my face in her presence.' ' Out of the way ?' she repeated. • So you left,' laughed Helen Radowsky. ' ' ?' • Yes ; seized last night, and now awaiting What else could I do he whined. trial, in the Prison of the Exiles.' ' Absolutely nothing. But tell me Doctor * That is quick work.' Pushkeene, will you now leave the field * Yes ; but why delay, when it had to be clear to your rival, the Prince Gallitzin of done t' Novgorod ? she laughed again, and laid her * There is no reason, Michael. But how white hand on his arm, and looked with an did it come about ?' indescribable, mocking, maddening expres- I I will tell you.' Pushkeene drew nearer, sion into his face. and spreading out his tal owy palm, as if the • I'll kill him first 1' hissed Pushkeene. words he was about to utter were quite legi- 4 You mean you will continue to obey ble to him thereon, he went on to tell how me?' he introduced Braski, a detective, to Vladi- • Yes.' he said, desperately. meer, passing him off as a friend Neuman, ' Then you must see your friend Braski— of Moscow ; how they went together to the or Neuman of Moscow—and tell him it is Nihilist meeting, and how he—Pushkeene necessary to start the rumor that Prince there secreted certain treasonable papers in Gallitzin is disaffected, and that he is in cor- Vladimeer's pockets ; how Braski—who was respondence with Nihilists, and that he is a Nihilist at heart— entered into his plans, using his high position to overthrow the promising not to give information about the government. ' ?' meeting only as it affected their victim ; and But can that be proven finally he gave the particulars of Vladimeer's ' You must ask me no questions, nor arrest. attempt to see through my plans. Obey me 1 That was wonderfully well done ; but implicitly in the future, as you have in the the work is not yet completed,' she said de- past, and I promise you, you shall have the liberately. beautiful Elizabeth to yourself.' ' ' !' Oh, I am aware of that, but you will say Command me ! Command me he ex- it is well under way ?' claimed, leaping impulsively from his chair. 1 Perhaps so. After the conviction of Helen Radowsky stroked her brow Vladimeer Ruloff this Braski must be put thoughtfully, and after a time drew a paper out of the way.' from her pocket and began turning it over * Out of the way?' exclaimed Pushkeene. and over. ' Certainly; a useless tool may be a danger- ' Doctor.' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. stroke of fortune, the valet of Prince Gort- • Miss Radowsky.' valet ot schakoff entered. • You say you know well the Pushkeene saluted him, gave him a seat Prince Gortschakoff ?' at the other side of the little table, that • Very well.' filled stall, ?' nearly the and having ascertained • Intimately ( that the servant of the great man had a • are like brothers. We weakness for an expensive article of is heart a Nihilist ? Hun- • you think he at And ,he half bottle .- garian brandy ordered a and • I am sure of it.' this letter on his more cigars, with which they were soon as •If he could leave forty-eight comfortable and more confidential than table, within the next master's the Czar and the prince in their magnificent would be a great advantage to you hours, it palaces. and 6 paper, ad- The valet felt that much of his master's She handed him the sealed greatness was reflected on him ; and he 'to General Gortschakoff, and dressed sustained the burden with a great affecta- ' private and confidential. marked diginity, bearing at once,' said Push- tion of and a quiet gouty • attend to this I shall and statesman-like for one so young. He taking the paper. keene, used the pronoun ' We' with great freedom, Without doubt ? - _ of a doubt. just as if he were in partnership with the • Without the shadow from you again Czar and his master, and had serious . well. Let us hear very thoughts of assuming all the burdens of t0 Pushkeene, look- State, without the aid of other ornamental She^arose, and Michael the incumberances. this as a desire to terminate ing upon Knowing his man, and every atom of the rose also and took his departure. audience, very common earth he was created from, been so successful, For a man who had Michael Pushkeene humored his quest with did not feel elated ; in- Michael Pushkeene flattery and moistened him with brandy, and given him by Elizabeth deed the reception smoked incense at him from cigars unusually and unsatisfactory in Rulo'ff was depressing expensive for him, but rather common weeds in addition to which he theg reatest degree ; to the valet, who always snuffed the very as well as his friend was convinced that he, best smoke—secondhand, to be sure, but in the hands of this Braski, was but a tool not to be despised for that. remarkable woman. The result of this meeting was that Push- Braski out of the way, - She wants to put keene carried his point, the valet agreeing to the good out of him. when she has got all leave the letter, the next morning, on his says, ' may de danger- • Useless tools,' she master's desk. soon come to look ous weapons.' She may Having finished the brandy, the friends Pushkeene as a dangerous on Michael went out in great good humor ; and Ruryk thought came with weapon, and then-'This and Cossack left an adjoining stall and fol- him to a dead halt m such force as to bring lowed them to the street. shop. ' I would rather front of a drinking against me than this same have the demon XV. she's mortal if she CHAPTER Helen Radowsky. But ; her. She has can beat him in cunning, let GENERAL GALLITZIN LEARNS THB NEWS. me, and I will keep myeyes open.' warned Rumour likes to fill her trumpet with a did not banish the sicken- This conclusion great name and sound it through all lands; that took its place in ing feeling of dread particularly is that the case where the name of heart, never again to Michael Pushkeene's a hero is coupled with that of a fitting length of time. leave it for any heroine, and the keynote is love. very • been working the reception of It is cold. I have After General Gorts- this he muttered, hard and need a stimulant,' chakoff s all Saint Petersburg—fiom the step he was con- by way of excuse for the drinking-shops where the valets met to the templating. most aristocratic salons— rang with praises He walked into the shop, and entering one of General Gallitzin's manly beauty, and stalls that lined the universal of the little curtained there was a approval of his rumor- room, he ordered some brandy. ed betrothal to the Countess Alexandrina. and a A more fitting marriage, it was universally The liquor was brought and drank, conceded, could not be made, • Michael Pushkeene On the one cigar lit after which belief that his side were fame, fortune, family, and a great reasoned' hi, self into the purely physical, future ; on the other side were youth, beauty, recent uneas ness had been relieved him. high social position, and Prince Gorts- and that the brandy had quite was in the chakoff's niece. He drew the curtain aside, and unexpected General Gallitzin was congratulated on act of raising, when, like an — 34 VLADIMEER. THE NIHILIST. every hand, to his great annoyance. As ' General, Prince Wladislas Gallitzin of there was no betrothal, and could not be, Novrogod, I am commanded by Ins im- much as others might desire it, he did not perial maje'sty, our master, to convey you hesitate to deny the rumor, in his well-bred to his greetings -' way. The prince bowed and smiled. But the people looked on the denial as an ' To convey to you his greetings, and to excusable equivocation ; the betrothal was order that you meet him to-morrow, in just ascertain —in the mind of the public council with Prince Gortschakoff, in the as if the high contracting parties had affixed royal council-room of the Winter Palace, their aristocratic signatures to the marriage at the hour of noon.' paper , and the patriarch of the capital had To obey the commands of his imperial given his priestly blessing. majesty, my master, must ever be my Of all the men who i.eard this rumor, greatest pleasure, replied the prince. Count Kiseleft was the one who stoutely de- Count Kiseleff turned like a soldier at his nied it. And so much feeling did he mani- post, and was about to march away, when fest that his friends on the imperial staff the prince, with much good feeling, said : and the officers of the guards never ceased ' It is necessary that Count Kiseleff should joking him about his failure, while the ruder at once withdraw ?' and more thoughtless plainly told him that ' It is not necessary, but it is mv pleasure,' the young general had ' put his nose out of replied the count, with the same inflexible joint.' Physiologically it may be impossible bearing. to put any nose out of joint—short of an ' Uuder such circumstances, I can offer alligator's ; but figuratively, we all know, it no objection ; but I was on the point of ask- is a thing of very common occurrence. ing that you remain and take a soldier's Count Kiseleff was annoyed ; Count dinner with me. We shall be alone, and Kiseleff was angered and jealous ; and this there is much that I would say to you.' because Count Kiseleff was as desperately ' I regret that I cannot, to-day, avail my in love as it was possible for a man of his self of the honor conveyed in your invitation." shallow, malignant nature to be. In short, Should it remain open, it will afford me the Count Kiseleff hated the man whom every greatest pleasure to be the guest of the hero one else admired, and he set about finding of the Balkans." the weak part of his armor, with the deli- Count Kiseleff bowed from his hips up, berate intent of assailing him, should op- took his trailing dress-sword in his left hand, portunity promises success. and made his exit with unflagging rigidity General Gallitzin had just returned to his and wonderful dignity. office after an interview with Prince Gorts- Alone again ; and the prince dropped in- chakoff, in which interview he had argued, to a chair, and clapping his hands, gave way with characteristic earnestness, for a rehear- to a fit of laughter that was even boyish in \ ing in the case of the exiled Count Ruloff. its enjoyable exuberance. He had every reason to believe his request By my faith, Kiseleff is jealous ! Oh ! it would be granted, and was congratulating is as plain as the sun in the desert at mid- himself on the delightful surprise he would day. Poor, foolish fellow ! though I stand be able to give Madam Ruloff and Elizabeth, not in his way, tne fair Alexandrina would when Paul, his valet, came to the door and no more smile upon him than she would on said : his valet. He is but little of the courtier, ' May it please your excellency, Count or he would better disguise hn feelings. Kiseleff, aid to his impend majesty the And its strikes me, that as a gentleman, it Czar, is in waiting and requests an audience.' would be more proper to behave quite like ' Admit him at once,' replied the prince, one. But we all have our faults with our He rose trom his chair to meet his visitor, virtues.' this muttering as he did so : Having arrived at philosophical con- ' It is not a personal matter that brings clusion, the prince took up his pen and was Kiseleff to goon with his writing when here ; he has treated me very coldly about the of late.' tall figure of Ruryk the Cossack appeared in The count entered, walking very straight, the door, hat in hand, and straight as a ram- and looking as cold and dignified as it was tod. possible for a stumpy, sanguine man u Ruiyk's face was usually stolid, and there look. was a dress-parade look about his eyes ; now Prince Gallitzin was about to extend his his cheeks were flushed, and his grey eyes hand, with soldierly heartiness, when tin Hashed in a way that at once attracted his count bowed, and with a preliminary cough, master's attention. and the manner of a stage herald, delivered ' What is the matter, Ruryk ?' asked the himself after this fashion : 4 mice. — VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 35 ' • I have been scouting in the camp of the In the name of his imperial majesty, *neray, General, and have important infor- Alexis, Czar of all the Russias, you are our mation to report,' said Ruryk, with a mili- prisoner !' tary salute and three forward steps. Unhooking his fur cloak and throwing it It was so common for the soldier to use to Ruryk, who stood close behind, with his military terms and figures in speaking of sword half drawn from the scabbard, the every-day events that the general was not prince shouted : ' ?' ! know you not I surprised at this speech ; but he certainly Fools who am was astonished at what followed. ' A general of artillery,' said one of the With soldierly brevity Ruryk told of the detectives. conversation he had overheard between ' I am Prince Gallitzin, head of his Pushkeene, whom he did not know, and majesty's secret police and your master ! Prince Gortschakcff's valet, with whom he Back from my path !' His sword flew out, was acquainted. and the frightened men started back. ' They abused you, sir, and called you a Halting on the stairs, the prince called Nihilist, and said it would be proved.' back to Ruryk : The general laughed at this, and told • Place those two men under arrest. Call Rurvk to proceed. to the gens-d'armes to conduct them to 4 And the man told the valet that Madam prison, and report to me in the morning.' Ruloffand her son Vladimeer were arrested, ' With the greatest of pleasure, your ex- and are now in the Prison of the Exiles.' cellency,' replied Ruryk. The effect of these words was to bring the And before the prince had reached the ap- prince to his feet and drive the color from his artment under the roof, the detectives were cheeks. He made his orderly repeat what on the way to prison, under guard. he had said, which he did with the amend- ment, ' Acid the man said that you signed CHAPTER XVI. order for the arrest of Vladimeer, son of the GENERAL GALLITZIN MOVES WITH ENERGY. Count Ruloff.' At this the Prince fairly gasped. So A faint ' enter' came back in reply to the voluminous were the reports of the papers the prince's knock on the door leading into brought before him that he found it impos- the apartment. sible to read them through, and, for a know- He hastened in, and found the room fire- ledge of their contents, had to depend on less and cheerless, with Elizabeth, pale as the statements of his clerical sub; iinates. death, lying on a lounge under the window. It was possible that he had signed such a 'Elizabeth, my darling my life !' paper, but, at the same time, highly impro- The prince was on his knees beside her, bable. The matter must be looked into im- and his strong arms folded her to his breast. mediately. He ordered Ruryk to get out So far the heroic girl had endured her his sleigh at once and prepare to accompany mental torture and physical suffering with- him. out complaint ; but now that love and In a few minutes the three horses, attach- sympathy were near, she broke down, and ed abreast to the vehicle, were dashing the overwrought feelings sought relief in a down the streets of the city at such a flood of tears. ' furious rate that pedestrians stopped and Poor child ! Poor darling ! Could I watched them out of sight, fully convinced have known of this, how short would have they were running away. been your sufferings!' said the prince, in a They galloped into the narrow street, and choaking voice. reined in suddenly before the high, thin ' I care not for myself. But my mother house in which were the Ruloff lodgings. and brother are in the dungeon of the Exiles. As the prince leaped out he saw a cordon of Save them ! Ah, save them, Wladis'as !' gens-d'armes surrounding the place. she cried, raising her hands appealingly. Unminding them, he was about to enter I will save them !' he said, hoarsely. when two men emerged from the door, and Then kissing her, he rose to his feet, and his laying their hands on his shoulder, demand- eyes flashed as he continued : ' God's curse must ed : come to the land • Whom want you to seel' where such things are possible! And this ' How dare you ask, or stop me ! Dogs ! is Russia, the land of my fathers—the land let me pass !' for which I drew my sword and risked my He dashed them aside, and was about to life! Better— ten thousand times better spring up the staiis, when a man on the that she were overrun by the Moslem than steps raised his musket and called to him to that she should subject her people to torture • Halt !' At the same time the two men to save a life that can only exist through again seized him, and said : tyranny.' 36 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. ' so, be sufferings,' Do not speak Wladislas ; you may said good Mrs. Cushing; and in a the next victim,' said Elizabeth, pleadingly. medicinal way she administered to Eliza- ' There are times when it is a relief to beth a glass of warm wine, and assured the give tongue to thoughts that have grown too prince that herself and daughter should de- large for restraint. But come. Elizabeth. vote their whole time to their guest and You must go at once to a hotel, and have a patient. doctor's care. I will leave a soldier in charge ' To the Prison of the Exiles,' said the Exiles here. Then to the Prison of the ; prince, as he leaped again into the sleigh. and before many hours the Countess Ruloff Away speed the foaming horses ; and and her son shsll be free !' those who recognized the prince as he dash- With a strengtn born of hope, Elizabeth ed by, reasoned that he was on business of Ruloff rose, and put on her mantle and hood unusual importance connected with his de- first placing in a satchel some necessary partment. Through the arched gate, that articles of apparel, which the prince said he seemed like the entrance to a grim, gigantic would send for. mausoleum, and the prince sprang from the They descended to the street, where Ruryk sleigh before it had well shopped, and hur- the Cossack stood like a statue, watching ried into the receiving-room. the crowd attracted by the not unusual mat- There, at the table, with the pile of glisten- ter of an arrest. ing handcuffs on one side and the chained • Ruryk !' book before him, sat the swarthy secretary, ' Yes, General.' Ruryk touched his hat. erasing with red ink the names of a batch of ' Take charge of Madam Ruloff's apart- prisoners that had been sentenced that day, ments. I will send a man to relieve you in The man looked up, and recognizing in two hours.' the general an officer and a noble, he rose Ruryk saluted, wheeled and marched up and stood with his hand to his bushy head. the stairs, as he would have marched to the ' I am General Gallitzin, chi^f of her cannon's mouth had the same lips issued the majesty's secret police.' order. At the mention of that name the guards ' To the Hotel America,' said General seized their arms and came to a salute, and Gallitzin, as he took his place in the every man in the room rose to his feet. sleigh heside Elizabeth Ruloff. 'You have in this prison the Countess Ru- The gens-d'armes came to a salute, and loff and her son Vladimeer, arrested without the horses dashed off with the impetuosity my knowledge or consent,' continued the with which they had come. prince. 'In the hotel to which I take you.' said The clerk referred to the book and said : the prince, folding the fur robes about her ' The arrest of Vladimeer Ruloff was made shoulders, ' lives Mr. Jonathan Cushingand on your written order. Madame Ruloff was his family, the merchant who agieed to arrested under the rule in such cases.' employ Vladimeer. I met the family in ' Under the rule,' repeated the excited America, and found them to be delightful prince. ' Where is the order of commit- people. You can depend on a warm wel- ment ?' come, for they know of your troubles.' Here,' said the swarthy clerk, handing ' Could you not,' asked Elizabeth, ' first him the paper in question. take me to my mother and brother V The prince glanced at it, recognized his * Gladly, if anything were to be gained by own hurried signature, and then tore the it. But why fatigue yourself, when it will paper into fragments and crushed it under be my great pleasure toon to bring them to his heel. you ?' ' I wish to see Madam Ruloff and her son Elizabeth consented to be guided by him, at once.' he said, peremptorily. and went on to the hotel at which lived the The swarthy clerk motioned to a man Cushings. whose broad girdle was weighted with The prince not overestimated the merits bunches of ponderous keys, and said : of the warm-hearted Americans. Mrs. ' Conduct 147 and 213 to the reception Cushing met the beautiful girl as if she had room immediately.' been her own child ; and Mrs. Cushing's The man with the keys vanished, with a daughter, Belle, as she heard the story of rattling noise, and another man, standing in Elizabeth's sufferings, wept and gave vent, humble attitude before the prince, said : by turns, to expressions against Russia that ' If your excellency will follow me, I will would have sent her to Siberia for life had show you the reception room.' she been a Russian and some spy was near This reception room, a cold, cheerless to report her words. apartment with a stone floor, and a border ' Poor child ! she must have a doctor at of wooden benches surround ing the wall, once. I wonder she has lived under her was near by. VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 37 The prince paced the floor nervously, till CHAPTER XVII. a door, opposite to that by which he had FREE entered, opened, and Madam Ruloff and her BUT NOT SAFE. 1 son, who had just met/came in hand in Again, in the name of my master, the "hand. Czar, I protest against freeing those prison- At the sight of General Gallitzin Madam ers, untried and unpardoned,' said the gov- Ruloff uttered a cry ol joy, and would have ernor of the prison, walking backward, as the fallen had he not caught her and carried general advanced, with Madam Ruloff on his her to a seat. arm. period of his * And again I order you Short as the imprisonment from my path ! if was, Vladimeer Ruloff looked pale, haggaft I have violated the regulations, you know and aged, as if he had been deprived of the remedy. I am now acting on my own his liberty for years. The light, after long responsibility, confident that my conduct will hours of darkness, so affected his eyes that meet the approval of the Czar when I he could scarcely see, and had to grope his have brought it to his notice, as I shall do way to his mother's side. at once,' said the prince. • Elizabeth is safe, with my friend, the ' Then why not go to the Czar first,' asked Cushings, at the Hotel America. I only the governor, ' and so do things regularly ?' ' First, learned ot this outrage an hour or so ago,' because I wish to release a sick explained the prince, when Madam Ruloff woman, who may survive if freed at once and, in the ; had revived sufficiently to see and hear him. second place, I exercise a right in • It would have been a mercy to have kill- visiting any and every prison in the realm ed us, instead of taking us to those vile and in correctirg the errors of my subordin- dungeons,' said the madam, shuddering at ates, for which I am responsible.' The governor, the thought of her sufferings. seeing that further ob- jection was The governor of the prison came in, and useless, and perhaps satisfied that he had to him General Gallitzin said . done all the law and his pos ' are friends ltion required of These people my ; they were him, fell back, still mutter. committed under an error. I am going to nig, and saw the prince placing the Count- here.' ess Ruloff and her take them from son in his sleigh and driv- • It would please me to oblige General ing off. ' By Gallitzin,' said the my faith ! the Prince governor, said the prince, with a grim ' laugh, ' I little obsequiously ; but while many have the thought, when I assumed m V imprison, but one has the right duties in the hope power to to that t.might stand as a mediator free.' between thdGakr and the swarm- ?' • demanded the ing discontents, Who«is that prince. that I would be u^iing my • excellency.' position in such The Czar, your a short time for the n ' I will take the responsibility of correct- of those I love best.' error. Madam Ruloff and her 'But you have ing my own remedied the evil said with me,' said the prince, rising Vladimeer, son leave whose eyes now became accust Ruloff his arm. omed to the and giving Madam moonlight glare on the dazzlin* ' I protest,' said the snow, and whose Against that gover- spirits rose every instant nor. as he inhaled, like refreshing draughts !' God's • You protest free, pure air, which was denied to the pris * The prince walked forward the door, Vladi- oners in that horrible dungeon. I following. fear," sighed the madam, • meer J that this is • J protest, your excellency, and must call by no means the end of trouble.' police,' persisted the governor, at the « feel very sure,' said in the I the prince, posit- lvely, ' same time clapping his hands thrice. that it is the worst of it,' men rushed in, •And feel armed and the you very ' A score of sure,' she' asked that pointing to Madam Ruloff and her harm may not come to governor, yourself from this act ?' son cried out : • prisoners are about to leave I see nothing to Those two fear,* he said, lightly ad- orders. Seize them !' ding as the horses slackened without their speed • forward to 1 Here we are The police started execite this at the hotel America Here sudden halt, you will find order, but came to a as the Elizabeth, and here you must shouted, with the ring of a bugle in all make your home for prince the present. I shall martial voice : see that the old lodgings are ' his gu i dM • people at your peril ! Back He helped Seize those Madam Ruloff, from the sleiVh quarters, I Back, / command and Vladimeer and he to your men half carried her into you /' the hotel.where Mrs. Cushing and her dau^h The men shrank back, and General ter greeted them with true American warmth" again. The meeting GalUzin advanced between Elizabeth and her 38 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. mother and brother could not have been of your mother and sister, leave the place more touching had they been parted for without consulting me.' years. Mrs. Cushing and Belle did not at- ' I will not.' to back their ' tempt keep tears ; and General And, Vladimeff, tell Mr. Cushing fully Gallitzin went to the window and looked out, and frankly about your trouble. The Ameri- using his handkerchief the while as if he cans are a cool, shrewd, far-seeing people. had suddenly caught a violent cold. Full of courage and generosity. This man After a few minutes the prince came back is a good specimen of what I consider the from the window, and kissing Elizabeth, he very finest people in the world,' took Madam Ruloft's hand and said : With this understanding the friends shook • I have much to attend to, and must be hinds. And once more General Gallitzin going. Here you will be safe for the pres- was being whirled away in the sleigh. ent ; and I can speak from a happy experi- Despite her freedom and kind recep- ence when I tell you you are with friends.' tion received at the hands of Mrs. Cushing ' That they are !' said Mrs. Cushing. and her daughter, Madam Ruloff was so ' And to make them safer,' joined in the prostrated by the shock consequent to her generous, enthusiastic daughter, ' I am going arrest, and her subsequent sufferings, that she to hang the flag of my country over the en- had to go to bed, and a doctor was called trance to these apartments, and i* any of in. your police or soldiers attempts to pass it, Vladimeer sat in the sumptuous private he must do it at his peril.' parlor, the ladies being in attendance on his ' I can promise,' laughed the prince, ' that mother, and he mused over his position and there will be no need to invoke the protec- tried to see, through the future, to the end tion of your flag ; though, were it necessary- of his troubles. no national emblem other than that of Rus- As he sat there the door opened, and a sia is so powerful in St. Petersburg.' tall man with a smooth face and k6en eyes Promising to call early on the morrow, entered. General G-dlitzin left the Cushing apart- 'What, you, Mr. Ruloff?' said the new- ments, Vladimeer following him into the comer, shaking his hand. ' I am right glad hall. to see you. I wondered why you had not re- ' Now my dear Vladimeer,' said the gen- ported for duty at the warehouse; but as I eral, draw him to one side, and speaking in a came along I heard of your arrest, and also low tone, ' I want you to tell me, frankly, all of your extraordinary release. It was a bold you know about this matter.' act and a righteous one, though I fear it may Briefly, and without any effort to shield prove to be a rash one to your friend Gener- himself, Vladimeer told of his connection al Gallitzin.' with the Nihilists, how he came to join them, This was Mr. Cushing, The American and all the events of the night preceding merchant. his arrest. But he mentioned no names. Vladimeer spoke of the manner of his ar- ' There are two people—fellow-Nihilists of rest and release, and asked : yours— at the bottom of this matter,' said • But why do you think it may work injury the prince, when Vladimeer had concluded. to General Gallitzin ?' ' Who are they ?' asked the astonished • I have just come from change, where the Vladimeer. event was being discussed in whispers by ' Michael Pushkeene and this woman Helen frightened groups. Those who dare to speak Radowsky,' replied the prince. their minds— and they are mighty few, I re- 1 ?' But why should they persecute me gret to say— applaud the general ; but the ' Tney persecute you, Vladimeer, the bet- most ardent admirer of the act is convinced ter to strike me. You remember that wom- that the general will find himself in trouble. an came to mv house to assassinate me, and Your Czar is very jealous of his prerogatives,' you warned me ?' said Mr. Cushing, with a dry smile. • •, ' V ! and you should have punished her,' But, should not the general know this at said Vladimeer. once ?' ' I think not. I propose to try other ' He will know it as soon as if I started methods. I understand the baseless cause after him and said what I have to you. He for her hatred. Her father tried to assass- is a bold, m ig iificent fellow. He should be inate mine, and my father pled sucessfully an American. But while regretting his com- for the would-be-murderer's life. The son ing trouble- -do you think you are safe ?, cannot be less magnamious with the daugh- ' I do not,' replied Vladimeer. ' ter. As to that presumptuous wretch Push- Nor do I ; but I think I can help you ; at keene, he is nearins the end of his own rope any rate I can try,' said Mr. Cushing shak- and my patience. Now, Vladimeer, do not, ing Vladimeer's hand. as you value your safety and the happiness ' And I, Mr. Cushing, thank you from my : —; VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 39 heart for the intention. But if the general We must go to our publication office at gets in trouble, through aiding me, I cannot once.' fois ike him.' ' What for ? he asked. 1 ' That is manly in sentiment, but it wont You know Vladimeer Ruloff and his work in practice,' said the matter of-fact mother were released by General Gallitzin, American. ' If by hanging on here you could without authority of the Czar.' help General G»llitzin, I'd say doit and face 'Yes. All Saint Petersburg is ringing with throw life it,' the music ; but you can't. Why and freedom away for a useless sentiment? ' You also know that nine-tenths of the You must leave Saint Petersburg, and at students in the city are Nihilists ?' once. I will fix it,' said Mr Cushing, slap- ' It is so thought.' ping his knee with the emphasis of a man ' And it is true. Now, Varwitch, within who has just reached a strong, feasible con- twenty-four hours this proclamation must be clusion. in print, mailed to the chief officers of the gov- ernment, and posted in all the public places in the city.' XVIII. CHAPTER Helen Radowsky drew from her pocket a THE PROCLAMATION. folded paper, and opening it handed it to Varwitch, and asked : Helen Radowsky was too cunning to make 1 Can you read that ?' her own house a headquarters for the dis- 'No; it is written in characters of our managed own invention,' he responded, returning the. contents, whom she had led and ; nor was their need that she should, when paper. more than one half the roofs in the city shelt- ' You are a very learned man, dear Var- ered the heads of Nihilists and places of witch. You are right as to the characters rendezvous were open, to the initated, on but the document is further protected by be- every hand. Indeed the very publicity of ing in the Manx language, which outside of some of these places and the high character a little island in the Irish sea, is unknown to of the people resorting there, were their the world. I spent a summer there before greatest protection against the prying eyes my father died.' She then read as follows : ' of the Czar's spies. She stood before the To the Freemen of all the Ku^sias ! fire in her sitting-room, dressed to go out, —We, the students of St. Petersburg, do and patting her little foot impatiently on the send this proclamation, and send this greet- red hearthstone. ing : The door opened behind her, and turning, * We organize to disorganize. she stood face to face with Varwitch. ' We must destroy the palaces and prisons ' Did you think, I was never coming ?' he of the autocrat and tyrant before we can even asked, retaining her hand, and looking intent- consider plans for the temple of Liberty. ly into her bright, mysterious eyes. ' Every means that adds to our strength is ' I supposed for justifiable. you had good cause delay ; but there is so much to do and such a short ' The army is coming to our side. time to do it in, and I cannot help feeling im- ' The Navy is -disaffected. patient,' said Helen Radowsky, beaming and * The Czarwitz— eldest son of Alexander pouting with well affected pleasure on Var- sides with us. witch. ' The chief of the Czar's secret police is ' I did what you ordered. Should a searcn discusted with his position. of the prince's apartments be made to-mor- * The tyrant arrested Vladimeer Ruloff, row, documentary evidence of his anti-mon- son ot our friend, the exiled Count Ruloff. archical feelings will be found in abundance,' and confined him in the dungeon of the said Varwitch. exiles. The tyrants arrested Madam Ruloff, • And in his own handwriting ?' she asked. and our hearts became heavy. But, joy to ' So much like his own handwriting that us ! and alLbonor to Wladislas the Prince I defy all the experts in Russia to tell the Gallitzin of Novgorod, who freed our friends difference.' in defiance of his imperial (?) master. ' Good !' she exclaimed. ' I knew you * Patience yet awhile. ' could do it. Ah ! you are an invaluable No more cavalcades to Siberia. man.' 1 No more impressment. ' And an unrewared one,' he growled. ' No more grinding taxes. ' Patience, patience, my dear Varwitch.' \ No more desolate homes. She laid her hand upon his arm and gazed 1 No more nobles. into the fire in an abstracted way, then look- ' No more tyrants. ing up, as if the thought had just flashed up- * In the name of Russian Patriots and free- on her, she continued men, we greet you, : 40 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. The Students of Saint Patersburg!' sprang up, grasped their hands, declared he ' What do you think of that ?' she asked, he was overpowered with joy at meeting them replacing the paper to her pocket. and gave evidence of the fact by dancing ab- ' It is characteristic,' answered Varwitch, out like a particuiary lively monkey. • is the object to rouse the But what — * Have you the proclamation ?' he asked people ?' finishing his antics and resuming his chair. ' No,' she laughed ; to rouse the tyrant. ' I have. Let me read it to you. Take This proclamation will force the remova' of your pen and make a copy,' said Helen Rad- Gallitzin at once. His arrest will Prince owsky. follow. Already Gortschakoff, is in posses- Pushkeene obeyed her, making a tran- sion of papers pointing out the prince's treas- script of the proclamation. on. He will be arrested if he does not fly. A man with a green shade over his eyes Flight would confirm suspicion. Bat he is came up, and greeted the new arrivals. a bold man, and conscious of his innocence ; Helen Radowsky drew him to one side and bravely meet his accusers— and per- he will whispered: ish !' she said, sinking her intense voice to a ' Preserve the copy in Pushkeene's hand- whisper. writing.' 'If you were not beautiful as an angel,' The man with the green shade puckered said Varwitch, shudderi lg as he watched up his lips, as if about to whistle, and nodded her, * I would say you were the most cold intelligently. blooded and insatiate demon that ever ap- 'And,' she said, raising her voice, so that peared in the guise of humanity.' Pushkeene could hear, ' the proclamation * To brood over a wrong that religion is must be printed at once, and ready for post- powerless to console, i5 to b come a demon ing before daylight.' or a maniac. But come; let us to the print- ' It shall be done,' said the man with the ing office.' shade. They went out, and as they walked along ' And copies must be mailed to those ad- the well-lit streets many recognized them as dresses,' she said, handing him the list. the major domo of Prince Gallitzin's house- ' Is that all V hold and the pretty teacher to the children ' That is all,' she said, turning to leave. of the Czar's heir. They entered a restaurant, before which Miichael Pushkeene put on his hat and policemen lounged, and in which many army overcoat and accompanied Helen Radowsky officers sat about the little white tables, eating and Varwitch to the street. drinking, and chattering. A waiter, in ob- • I am going,' he said, ' to call on my friends edience to Varwitch's request, conducted the Ruloffs, and congratulate them on their them to a private room in the back part of freedom. ?' the building and left them, without asking 'Where are they asked Helen Radowsky. their order. ' At the hotel America, I understand,' They did not sit down, but opening an- ' I am afraid,' she laughed, ' that your other door, passed through and ascended a friend Vladimeer will not long enjoy his lib- dimly lit stairs. They went up flight after erty. If he is not in prison again before ten flight, and came to the end of the stairs and hours, I mistake the spirit and power of the a door, with a circular aperture in it, at the authorities. Good night.' some time. Varwitch knocked, aud like an Pushkeene had no thought of leaving so ' ' echo from the other side, a knock was heard soon ; but looking on her good night as a in reply. dismissal, he wisely and immediately took The drop that covered the aperture was his departure. pushed back, and Varwitch sent a message At t»ie door of her own house Helen Rad- hoarsen ss, through, in a whisper of great owsky dismissed Varwitch, just as abruptly ; The door opened, and a man in a knit jack- and that gentleman went off, mad with love, et turned the key behind them, and after and the feeling that he was only welcome so much winding through dark passages, and a long as he could be of use ; and he wonder- great deal of knocking and mysterious whis- ed if this would continue till she cast him pering they were conducted into an apart- off permanently— like a worthless garment. ment filled with all the appurtenances of a Helen Radowsky went to her own room, printing office. and was in the act of writing, when the ser- At a table, with his coat off, for the room vant announced was hot and close, sat Michael Pushkeene, ' A gentleman to see you.' reading proof, and looking very much like 1 Did he give you his card ?' an elderly printer's devil in a congenial ' No, Miss.' swelter. ' Nor his name ?' At sight of Helen Radowsky, Pushkeene ' No. He is very handsome, and says he ' ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 41 will only detain you a few minutes,' replied tives and the fairness of my acts must ever the servant. be my defense.' Surveying herself in the glass, with an ex- He bowed in his courtly way; and Helen pression of self-satisfaction, Helen Radow- Radowsky tried to reply, but the words sky sent the servant to say she would see her stuck in her throat. When she had regain- visitor directly ; then she secreted the jewel- ed the command of her tongue, the door had hilted dagger in her girdle, and went down. closed behind the prince, and she heard the She trembled at seeing a tall figure stand- musical jingle of bells as his sleigh drove ing before the fire. Coughing to attract his off. attention, great was her amazement at find- 'My God ! My God ! why did I permit my- ing herself face to face with the man to whose self to see him again !' she cried, her clinch- ruin all her energies were bent. ed hands upraised, and a pleading, hunted ' Prince Gallitzin !' she gasped. look in her dark eyes. ' Yes you did not expect to see me ?' he She threw herself on a lounge, ; aud clos- said, in low, musical tones, that thrilled her, ing her eyes, covered her face with her hand- while she grew nervous, under the glorious kerchief, but she could not shut out from her eyes. mind or sight the splendid, sodierly form, ' I did not, nor can I imagine the reason nor Jhe tedjr, t rave eyes an 1 Apollo-like for this— this honor.' she replied, with an ef- features of the prince. His musical voice, fort at self-possession still rang in her ears, 'and she swayed her- ' I will not detain you lon^. I came on a self as if to its rhythm. matter of the greatest importance to you and 'Oh my father! my father !' she wailed. me— ' Can no less noble sacrifice avenge thy many He hesitated, and Helen Radowsky mo- wrongs !' tioned tor him to proceed. She lay there till the fire burned low, and • The cause of your violent antipathy to me the cold from without began to creep in, but is as groundless as your manner of showing no cold could chill the fever of her whirling it is dangerous to yourself. Of the truth of brain. this I can convince you, if your prejudice is not too strong to be influenced by your better CHAPTER XIX. judgement. But I came not to speak of my- self; the fact that my knowledge of*your PRINCE OORTSCHAKOFP ASTONISHED AND acts and associates has not led to your ar- ANGERED. rest, is a warrant that my feelings for you are kindly, at least— At the hour of ten the following morning • Your excellency is magnanimous,' she General Gallitzin went to the Gortschakoff said, with a little satirical laugh. palace, to se.i the old statesman, before going • I claim no such credit, Miss Radowsky at noon to the Winter Palace. ; but I must confess. I am at a loss to know Having announced his arrival he was why you should persecute the Ruloffs, who amusing himself by looking over the pictures have never done you a wrong. in the salon in which he was waiting, when • I persecute the Ruloffs !' she exclaimed. to his delight and surprise, the Countess • Pray do not deny what I have the strong- Alexan rma entered. est proofs of. My object is not to upbraid ' I am glad, and yet sorry, to see you,' she nor to intimidate, but to ask that you rest said, retaining his hand, and leading him to satisfied with what you have done. I assure a* deep window, where they could converse you it will be the only way to retain your unobserved. own safety.' • Sorry ?' he repeated, with a questioning ' I thought you were not going to threat- smile. ' • en,' she sneered ; adding : I Lave no desire Perhaps that is not the right word ; but to injure the Ruloffs; aud in saying that 1 I have been very anxious for you and Vladi- was the cause of their being sent to prison, meer,' she said. ' you give me credit for a power second only Vladimeer is free again ; and I stand be- to that that released them.' fore you healthy in body and untroubled in ' I have no desire to argue with you, Miss mind,' rejoice 1 the prince. Radowsky. You know, in your own heart, ' True, dear General, and your conduct if I ani right. I know, in my own heart, I made my heart leap with joy. Eut, alas ! I would not do you an injustice. Again I beg fear it is all to be undone.' that you desist from,your efforts against the ' Undone !' he exclaimed. • Ruloffs, and save me the labor of protecting Yes ! I sent a message to Vladimeer tell- them at your expense. Against myself, if ing him to get into concealment for the you will not be changed, continue the herit- present. I do not hesitate to tell you that age of causeless hate ; the purity of my mo- our separation has but strenthened our at- ' ' ' 42 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. tachment, and forced us to clandestine com- admiring the apparent indifference of the munication.' man to the subject, that was uppermost in ' That is ever the case. But why should both their minds. you advise Vladimeer to hide ?' At length, General Gortschakoff, with the ' Because, from the mutteringsof my uncle manner of a man just recalling a question of I am satisfied Vladimeer will be arrested no particular importance, asked : ' again this day ; and I am equally well satis- Do you find the duties of your office fied that your action will be reversed by the onerous ?' Czar, and result, perhaps, in the loss of your 'They keep me busy, and it seems almost position.' impossible to become familiar with the deli- 'For the position I care nothing; but cate intricacies of the place.' replied Gen- should the dissapproval be as pointed as you eral Gallitzin. think I will resign every office, and quit Rus- ' Young soldiers fresh from the field usually sia forever.' he said deci ively. find civil positions irksome. I know it was ' No, No !' she cried. ' It must not come so with your grandfather after we returned to that. My uncle likes you ; and seems de- from the French campaign ; and your father that you and I shall never liked termined be married. the position in Poland. But —it I have not dared to undeceive him. But it is the part of a good soldier to obey orders is fortunate that you and I fully understand ' I agree with you, General.' each other.' ' And I must confess the orders are not al- ' Very fortunate my dear Countess. Yet, ways of an agreeable nature.' General Gortschakoff, must know the truth ' Decidely not, in my case. But while sooner or later; and, for myself, I intend to orders must be obeyed, it is mortifying to undeceive him at once. He has power, think that, in one's zeal, much — an injury is done to but even the Czar cannot control the affec- the innocent ' tions of his own family, much less of his True,' said the old diplomat ; but I hope subjects— you have had no such experience.' ' ' i lush ! here comes Count Kiseleff, whis- I regret to say I have.' General Gallitzin pered the Countess. saw that he must open the subject himself, The count must have seen them ; but ex- and so determined to plunge into it at once. cept a deepening of the color on his florid ' It is simply impossible for me to examine cheeks and a more rigid carriage of the critically all the papers brought for my sig- head, he gave no indication of trie fact. nature, and I find I cannot trust the judge- • There is one man that will rejoice at your ment of my subordinates.' misfortunes,' said the countess, nodding after ' Then you should replace them with men the retreating courtier, and adding : But that can be trusted,' said General Gortscha- little good it will do him. Ah ! he littfe koff, with emphasis. imagines that the despised son of an exile is ' True, but that does not destroy respon- his rival.' sibility for past errors. Here is a case in ' Prince Gortschakoff, awaits General Gal- point ; I signed, without knowing what it was, litzin.' an order for the arrest of Vladimeer, son of ' You will hear from me again to-day, God the exiled General Ruloff, and it was exe- grant success,' whispered the countess. cuted. Subsequently, the Countess Ruloff The prince pressed her hand, smiled en- was arrested, under the rules, for attempting couragingly, and followed the messenger. to enter her own house, There was no During his long military and diplomatic charge against her, and that charge against career, General Gortschakoff, had gained a her son was false. The mother and son complete mastery of his feelings ; and so great were placed in the vilest cell in the Prison of was his control of fa.e and voice that it was the Exiles. The moment I heard of their simply impossible to get any clew from them arrest I hastened to the prison and released that would lead to an idea of his actual them.' thoughts. Had he sent for Prince Gallitzin ' The act did great credit—very great credit to compliment him on some act that par- - to your heart,' said General Gortschakoff, ticularly met his approval, his manner could stroking his brows, against the grain, with a not have been more pleasant, nor his greet- thumb and finger. 'But it is to be regret ed ing more cordial. that you assumed the power, of freeing pris- Nodding for the aid to withdraw, he made oners, which, up to this time, has been the some- common place remark about the jealous prerogative of the throne. The guilt weather, thought the ice would be broken up or innocence of prisoners ca»pnly be deter- in the Gulf of Finland in a month, and re- mined by a proper trial before a regularly joiced that the days were getting so much constituted tribunal. Your error must be longer. On all these subjects the prince was remedied.' 4 of the same mind, though he could not help Remedied, your excellency ? Why that is ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 43 just what I have done ? I could not wait to and Gallitzins were ever friends, and the explain to the Czar the manner in which Gallitzins are not distinguished for forsak- these people were arrested through my error. ing friends in misfortune,' said the piince To leave them in that wretched dungeon hotly. would be inhuman. So I released them on 1 And to maintain the family reputation my own responsibility. If I have erred, the you associate with those people ?' said Gen- blame and the punishment, are mine, not eral Gortschakoff, with the shadow of a theirs.' sneer. * You think this Vladimeer Rulofi innocent, * Yes, your excellency,' replied the prince, eh ?' asked General Gortschakoff, toying with rising,- with flushed face and flashing eyes. a bundle of papers on the desk before him. ' To maintain the honor of the Gallitzins, ' Of this charge—most emphatically.' who have been brave in war and true in !' ' I regret that you did not look into it more love carefully. I have here evidence—indisput- ' What has love to do with it ?' able evidence—furnished by the detective ' Much, your excellency, Elizabeth, daugh- Braski, and others, that Vladimeer Ruloff is ter of the exile Count Ruloff, has blessed me a conspirator, a Nihilist, and a Socialist. her pure love, and gladdened my life by con- The young man is said to have fine abilities, senting to be my wife.' but this only makes him the more dangerous. 'What!' exclaimed the old man, his ex- I can see no reason why we should make an citement getting the better of him. ' Do you exception in his case. The safety of the dare tell me this ?' country is the first consideration.' ' I dare do anything that becomes a man ?' 1 ' If the country can only be saved Dy con- And you think it becomes a man to lead tinued inhumanity, I shudder for its exist- me to believe that you are paying your ad- ence. ' dresses—to my niece, when you are betrothed • If the idle and discontented aim at the to— to life of the land, they must bear the conse- * To the first lady in Russia, your excel- quent • And we, who are patriots, should lency. As to the Countess Alexandrina, her stand i^ady to remove our dearest friends to heart is bestowed on a member of the same achieve this end. Neither rank nor fame can family.' be an excuse for treason. And more, if found ' Prince Gallitzin, you are working your in a member of our own family, that member own ruin ! Reconsider before it is to late.' should be at once given over to justice,' said 4 1 have considered my acts, In anticipa- Prince Gortschakoff, speaking in a higher tion of discharge, I here resign to you the pitch, and with an icy glitter in his syes. office obtained through your favor.' The ' Your rule is, no doubt, wise ; but, if en- prince advanced and laid his resignation on forced, it would break up one half the the table. families in Russia, and make us two classes —prisoners and jailers. But to return to CHAPT1«*< XX. Vladimeer Ruloff, You know his family is impoverished—once they were the richest THE RESIGNATION. and most honored in Russia. He was dis- missed without cause or notice from a petty What, sir ! Do you dare come into my professorship in the school of mines. He presence prepared to set me at defiance was idle for some time, and, consequently, with this resignation ?' demanded General discontented, and with no reason to love the Gortschakoff, his grey eyes flashing and his powers that broke up his family and parted long hands trembling with excitement. them. On the day following his arrest he ' On my honor as a noble of Russia, I dis- was to have taken a position with the Ameri- claim any disrespect to Genpral Gortschakoff can merchant, Mr. Johnathan Cushing, that as a man, or as the second 'officer of the promised him the means to support his empire,' said Prince Gallitzin, restraining mother and sister. If he is permitted to go his indignation at this outburst. ' But I on, I will pledge my honor that he offends claim the right to resign a position I never not in the future.' sought, when my acts mee* ^he disapproval ' Your generosity may get you into trouble. of the appointing power ! My sword, my Is it quiet becoming or prudent in one hold- fortune, my life, are at the service of my ing the confidential and important position country ; but my affections are my own, so that you do, to associate with the family of far as they are under my control. I think a man convicted of treason ?' asked General your excellency understands me.' Gortschakoff. The prince bowed and steps back as if 1 The fact that I have done so and will con- about to withdraw. tinue to do so must be my answer as to the • Hold !' cried General Gortschakoff. ' becomingness and prudence. The Ruloffs Hold 1 this, the last audience you may ever ' 44 VLADIMEER. THE NIHILIST. have with me, is not at an end. Do not raged, but my respect for the dead blinds think I am disappointed that the daughter me for the time. I will make an effort to of my nephew is not to form an alliance save you.' 4 !' with the house of Gallitzin ! But I am dis- To save me ' appointed, that the son of my friend should Aye ; to save you. I will retain those have consorted with such people.' papers, and other evidence against you. for The old man rolled a bundle of papers in thirty-six hours; this will give you time to his hands as he spoke, and in conclusion get outside of the empire, and to save your struck them forcibly on the table. life. I council you to leave here at once, ' I protest that your office does not war- and depart from Russia forever. Do not add rant this freedom to insult me, and through madness to treason, by remaining.' said the me the remnant of the house of Ruloff, that general, tapping his bell. as yet is not in your prisons, nor condemned ' Treason !' exclaimed the prince. 4 by your tribunals ! Must I stand under Your excellency,' said an aid, entering, your palace roof and hear, without retort, in response to the bell. your unwarranted attacks on the family of ' My interview with Prince Gallitzin is that lady who is soon to become my wife ? through. Order my sleigh. I am due at the The swords of my ancestors would leap palace at noon,' said General Gortschakoff against me from their scabbards if I per- to the aid. mitted it. One year ago I left the great, Prince Gallitzin could not regain after free land ot the West to fight for Russia. this. Like one in a horrid dream he turned Now,' continued the prince, dejectedly, and left the palace ; and as he entered his 4 there is peace with the Moslem, and I am w iting sleigh, he sato Count Kiseleff stand- ready to leave the graves of my fathers and ing near by with a fiendish snear on his the land of my birth behind me forever.' florid face. 4 Ha, ha! You have been preparing for ' To the Winter Palace?' asked the driver; this, eh ?' half shouted the old man. he knew that his master had intended going ' No ; I said I was ready.' there at noon. * ?' ' To go whither No ; to the Hotel America/ replied the 4 To the free land of the West.' prince. 1 Nay, Wladislas, Prince Gallitzin, you are As the prince was about to ascend to Mr. ready to go to the slave land, the exile land, Cushing's apartments, he met Michael the prison land of the East,' exclaimed Pushkeene coming down, with a smile on General Gortschakoff, all his diplomatic seli- his face that showed he was pleased with control scattered to the winds. himself, if not with the world. Seeing the * As ready, and with as much against me, prince, he stopped, raised his hat, and said : 4 no doubt, as many who have gone there. Pardon me, General Gallitzin, but I am ' But the man, be a base-born or noble, who sure you are a friend of my friends—the says that Wladislas Gallitzin was ever, by Ruloffs.' word or act, faithless to Russia and our Czar The prince replied with a haughty look —whom may Heaven protect —lies 1' said that made the little wretch very cold and the pr,ince, proudly, uneasy. 4 * I did not say you had been so charged.' I have been calling on the countess and General Gortschakoff opened the bundle that her daughter ; they are not in a condition to he had been toying with, and said : 'Glance receive visitors, and I feel I am not exceed- at those papers, and tell me whose writing is ing the liberty warranted by my interest in on them,' „ Miss Elizabeth when— I protest against any ' It—it —looks liko mine,' replied the intrusion at this ti prince. Before Pushkeene could finish the sen- * Is it not yours ?' asked Gortschakoff, lay- tence the prince had seized him by the col- ing his hand so as to prevent the reading. lar and pitched him, with the greatest ease, ' That I cannot tell without knowing the to the landing below. •> 4 !' contents.' Curse you ! I'll get even Enjoy your * it ! These papers were sent to me—how, it freedom ; won't be for long I'll get matters not, at this time. Men skilled in even 1' shouted Pushkeene, who would have handwritting declare they are yours, and gone on shouting and shaking his fists in the evidence they contain against you is the direction the prince had taken had not strong enough to warrant your arrest—to Vladimeer Ruloff appeared unexpectedly be- forfeit your life.' hind him, and by a well-directed kick pre- ' Your excellency jests,' said the prince, cipitated him into the street. with a complacent smile. Madam Ruloff had not yet recovered from ' I am not given to jest. My duty is to her shock, but she was able to sit up in an hand it over at once to the law you have out- American easy-chair in the parlor, where ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 45 1 Elizabeth was ready to anticipate her every Fly ! fly ! Within one hour the gens-d'- want. arms will be searching for you. A sleigh ' !' awaits Oh, Wladislas cried Elizabeth, meet- you near the Troiskoi Bridge ! Use ' ing ber lover, and taking both his hands. I my name ! Here is a disguise I There is not to !' am so happy to see you ! We feared that a second lose !' the rumors might be true • Save yourself, my son 1 my son ! For ?' ' repeated, after stoop- The rumors he our sakes, go !' wailed Madam Ruloff. ing and kissing her. ' Come with me,' Mr. Cushing drew ' Yes,' she said, chcaking back a sob,* that Vladimeer into another room, and in a few you were arrested for liberating my mother minutes a stout, heavily-bearded man came and brother. Even Mr. Cushing thinks you with the brave American ; and after he had are both in danger.' taken a hurried farewell to his friends, Vladi- At that moment Vladimeer and Mrs. meer, thus disguised, left the room. Cushing entered the room, and gave a hearty ' now,' continued the greeting to the prince. And young countess, • !' let me beg you, General Gallitzin, to fol- • By the great Washington said Mr. low the example Cushing, with more excitement than his Vladimeer has set. The walls of Saint Petersburg are wife and daughter ever saw him manifest be- covered with Nihilists proclamations applauding fore, ' I wish you and young Ruloff were your re- if cent acts, and speaking of you as a friend.' out of this country ; and you would save your necks you must get out, for there is a ' What care I, when the story is false ?' gathering about you, and it will 4 black storrn Was not the story false that sent my before you know where you are.' burst fatfiter to Siberia? Oh, Wladislas! as you • the prince, '- to advise I came,' said — love me, be advised,' cried Elizabeth, taking fly at once Vladimeer to his hand and covering it with her tears. ' ' That,' joined in Mr. Cushing, is what I ' Nor have I told you the worst,' said the have advised. I have just been out and Countess Alexandrina, flushed with excite- made preparations for his flight. He must ment and indignation. ' Your palace has leave before another day dawns, and he just been searched, under the direction must conceal himself at once. And you, my of Count Kiseleff, and papers — incendiary dear Prince, should not allow your pride to papers in your own handwriting—have been stand in the way of your safety. It is con- found !' ceded by all right thinking men that you are • A forgery !' shouted the prince. it is the victim of a conspiracy ; but not the a forgery, but none custom of your judges to seek causes. It is Aye, the less danger- bus for that. Your servant to sentence, not to secure justice, that your Varwitch has on you. it is courts are organized.' been a spy He that showed 1' the papers could be found.' • too true sighed where Alas ! that is Madam Ruloff. ' And where is he now ?' asked the prince. • it is a shame,' said Mr. Cushing, But • Varwitch, with his companion, one • submit to it 1 that the people They Helen Radowsky, has gone with General !' wouldn't if they were Americans to the Gortsckakoff Winter Palace ; there • should save himself. As for Vladimeer they will tell their stories to the Czar.' me,' said the prince with lofty firmness, ' I ' And what care I for their lies ?' would not fly from a real danger. Why • Fear and danger, real or should 1 notice the rumors with which the imagined, has I, the Czar suspicious of his own air is filled ? Why should against whom made child- no wrong can be alleged, fly from the laws ren. He is ripe to credit treason to any one eager to punish. He will believe of the land, which but yesterday I bled to and "these face the people ; and you know what the result will uphold ? No 1 I will stay and ac- I certain not even treach- be.' cusers ! But am • concede your earnestness, ery can bring aught against me.' I and the 'That's brave !' said Mr. Cushing, admir- truth of what you say. But Wladislas faces the danger, it isn't discretion.' Gallitzin even though it ingly ; but Vladimeer wasjust on the point of adding leads to the scaffold ! I will go to my own and there await the that he could not think of saving himself palace result of this ex- while danger threatened his friend, when he citement. was prevented by the entrance of a closely Prince Gallitzin took an affecting leave of and the others, veiled lady. Elizabeth then went down to Hastily discoverring her face, the his sleigh as calmly as if he were bent on a Countess Alexandrina kissed Madam Ruloff journey of pleasure. then throwing her arms ' To my palace," he said to the driver and her daughter ; ; was whirled away as if in flight. about Vladimeer, she cried : and 46 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. CHAPTER XXI. d'armes, going to the Hotel America, for Vladimeer,' replied Pushkeene. He thought BEFORE THE CZAR. it prudent not to detail the particulars of his The rosy color had fled from Helen R rt exit from the hotel. dowsky's lace, and there was a wild, troubl- * And did the fair Elizabeth smile on you?' 4 ed look in her dark eyes, and a masculine set Oh,' rejoined Pushkeene, ' her mother to her lips, as she listened to Varwitch re- and two American women were present, so lating the success of the conspiracy he had of course she had to dissemble her love. But advanced under her guidance. she will soon be completely under my pro- ' The papers are in the hands of Count tection ; I have planned for that. Now let Kiseleff— in Gortschakoff s hands by this us be off. Hey 1 but the people who play time, and the next sleep of Prince Gallitzin our game and wear masks, throughout the will be taken in the darkest, deepest dungeon land, would be amazed to see us going to a of the Prison of the Exiles,' said Varwitch, royal sleigh to consult with the Czar of all in conclusion. the Russias.' ' He cannot escape arrest,' she said, as if Varwitch led the way, grinding his teeth, thinking aloud, rather than asking a ques- for he was a Nihilist at heart ; and Helen tion. Radowsky, refusing Pushkeene's proffered ' Impossible! Nay, he cannot escape death. hand, made no attempt to hide the expression In view of his rank and gallant services, of loathing that his words brought to her they may give him the choice of being shot face. or being hanged. As a soldier, he will of * Drive around the palace. Show us off. course elect to be shot. You have done Take us where as many soldiers as possible your work well, Helen—admirably well. must present arms. I will pay you for it,' You rfave a genius for such work.' said Pushkeene, who, in order to be more 'Yes, Varwitch !' she exclaimed, with a conspiciuous, had taken a seat before the chilling laugh. ' I have a genius and the driver. best of tools ready in my hands. But come; Refusing to be tempted into a violation of you say we are ordered to the Winter orders, .though he did not return the rouble Palace.' Pushkeene had slipped into his palm, the ' and it may be that we are forced to driver went directly to the entrance near the Yes r stand in the very presence of the Czar, and Hermitage, where Count Kiseleff was wait- answer his questions,' said Varwitch, with ing to conduct them to the audience cham- the manner of a man not at all pleased with ber. the prospect. ' Follow me,' said the count, with the ' For that I care not. Alexander is but a manner of a man who despised his tools in man, and neither a good nor a great one.' this dirty work. True, Helen, but all the more dangerous As th -y followed him in single file, Braski, for that. Ah ! here comes Pushkeene ; he who had figured in these pages as Mr. Neu- is to accompany us,' said Varwitch, coming man, of Moscow, fell in behind and accom- back from the window, just as a knock was panied them to the presence of General Gort- heard on the door. schakoff. •The puppy will soon be powerless to The old man was in the same room, and bark or fawn.' The sneer with which this sitting in the same attitude and by the same was said was in striking contrast with Helen table, as on the night when Prince Gallitzin Radowsky's manner when Pushkeene enter- of Novgorod received from his hand the ed the room, and proved her to be a consum- high evidences of his imperial master's ap- mate actress. ' I am glad to see you, Doctor, probation. ' is very glad to see you ! What is that without Which of these people Peter Var- —a sleigh ?' witch ?' asked General Gortschakoff, looking ' Yes, Miss Radowsky, Count Kiseleff from a memorandum in his hand to the placed his own sleigh and driver at our dis- people whom Kiseleff had brought in. posal,' said the elated Pushkeene. ' Oh, it * I am, may it please your excellency,' will be grand for us to enter the great square said the owner of that name, coughing and of the palace' in state and have the guards bo win *. present arms. When my father hears of it ' J I >\v long have you been in the service of his old eyes will weep for joy, and his heart Prince Gallitzin of Novgorod ?' ' will flutter with delight ! Nearly one year.' ' ?' ' Little hearts, like little leaves, are easily You know his habits fluttered. Have you seen the Ruloffs ?' ask- ' Thoroughly, your excellency.' ed Helen Radowsky. 1 His companions ?' ' ' I left them an hour ago ; and as I came Yes, excellency.' ' ?' away I met a sergeant and a squad of gens- And his handwriting : VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 47 'As well as my own, your excellency.' face as, with a trembling hand, she again ?' ' Is that the statement you swore to concealed the fatal weapon in her breast. General Gortschakoff handed him a paper; Pushkeene and Braski told their damning and after glancing at it intently, as if to be falsehoods with all the glibness of experts very, verv sure of the truth of every state- and the gloating of ghouls. They had seen ment he made, Varwitch handed the paper the prince a dozen times with Vladimeer Ruloff, was the head of a Nihilist back, with a profound bow, and said : who or • That was written by me; and to its ganization. They had seen the friends going truth I have sworn.' in and coming out of the secret meetings of ' Why did you not inform the authorities, the discontented students. But why repeat when you discovered that your master was after them the hideous and poisoning false- consorting with Nihilists and making his hoods ? palace the fountain from which emanated • His majesty desires to see the witnesses the incendiary publications that flood the against Prince Gallitzin,' said Count Kiseleff, nation ?' entering while Pushkeene was in the midst ' I was a servant, your excellency, and my of an interminable narration condemnatory master among the most powerful men of of the prince and highly laudatory of him- Russia. Who would believe the son of a self. serf against the son of the Gallitzins of General Gortschakoff rose with more dif- Novgorod ?' replied Varwitch, ficulty, and a sigh escaped his lips as be led General Gortschakoff raised his shaggy the way into the smaller reception chamber brows, as if he saw the truth of this reason- where the Czar was impatiently waiting. ' ing, but he did not say so. He turned to In the presence of the Czar ! This is Helen Radowsky and told her to tell what but the first step of my advancement. Oh, she knew. if my father could only see this!' thought * What she knew was through her lover, Pushkeene, as, with trembling limbs and Varwitch, who long since had communicat- downcast eyes he neared the august pre- ed to her the facts to which he had sworn. sence. Prince Gallitzin had visited her, but being ' Kneel,' whispered Count Kiseleff. an honorable woman, she had not encourag- The four conspirators knelt before the ed him. On one occasion, when she went to Czar, who sat on a chair and watched them his palace to see Varwitch, the Prince had suspiciously. driven her home in his sleigh, and, at part- ' These are the people, your majesty, who ing, had gi;ren her a dagger with which to have brought to your notice the conspiracy defend herself. Here it was. and treason of Wladislas Gallitzin, Prince She laid the weapon on the table, and of Novgorod, and general in the imperial General Gortschakoff picked it up and ex- artillery,' said General Gortschakoff, speak- amined it with much curiosity. ing as if he hoped for replies that would Your name is Radowsky ?' he asked, sud- show there had been a great mistake as to denly. the conduct of Prince Gallitzin.' The Czar • Yes, your excellency,' she answered. questioned each in turn. • Family from near Warsaw ?' The three men spoke first, with as much ' Yes, excellency.' strength if not so fully as before; but when • Father released and fled to England ?' it came to Helen Radowsky's turn, she stam- • Yes, excellency.' mered, clutched at her throat as if strangl- • I thought as much. This is very re- ing, and then fell unconscious at the imperial markable. The dagger I hold in my hand feet. is the one with which your father attempted She was carried out by the attendants, the life of General Gallitzin—father of the and the three men were sent away with prince—who was then governor of your pro- Count Kiseleff. vince. Your father would have been execut- 1 A most serious charge strongly sustain- ed, but General Gallitzin, who was a most ed,' said General Gortschakoff, when he was magnanimous man, plead for his life, and alone with the Czar. saved it. Afterwards he worked for years ' If this be true,' replied the Czar, raising to have your father pardoned, and hesucced- his hands, ' whom can I trust ? whom can I ed. I even think he sent the very money, trust ?' by a strange hand, that helped to establish your father in his new home. But I forgot CHAPTER XXII. Pushkeene and Braski, -let me hear your statements.' HEMMED IN. General Gortschakoff turned to the men Reaching his palace, Prince Ggllitzin named, and so did not see the deathly hastened to the room where he had hereto- pallor that came over the young woman's fore transacted public business, and throw- ' — 48 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. ing himself into a chair, summoned Ruryk * That I am sure of,' continued Ruryk. the Cossack. 4 The men in the ranks are all your friends, The orderly at once responded, and, as he and the ten thousand Cossacks now in the stood before his master, there was a fierce imperial city are ready to a man to die for gleam in his eyes and an ashy hue on his you.' bronzed cheeks. ' I thank them, but want no such sacrifice.* ' Ruryk !' * Nay, my master, hear me out,' said ' with Present, General,' replied Ruryk, Ruryk, dropping on one knee and bowing his the inevitable salute. head as if in prayer. ' The Gallitzins of ' Who has been here since I left?' Novgorod have ever been Cossack chiefs, ' Thieves and robbers under the efficient ere Sobieski of Poland and Catherine the leadership of his diminutive excellency, Muscovite united to enslave Little Russia, Count Kiseleff,' responded Ruryk. then ruled by the Attaman, Bogdan Gallit- ?' ' What was done zin, the successor of the renowned Mazeppa. • They came with a warrant to search the The Gallitzins have led the Cossack lancers palace ; had it been otherwise I would have to victory ; and when there is no Gallitzin to with ; as it spitted a half dozen my sword lead them, the lances will rest, and the valor the vultures was, I was forced to see going of our race will be an old man's story to looking through your private apartments and please the doubt ng young. Yield not to through your papers,' said the indignant tyranny at the prompting of treachery. Fly Cossack. faom here at cnce, and raise the banner of • Who told Kiselefi where my papers revolt I This, rather than wear the chains were ?' of a condemned exile I The soldiers await • Who but the traitor and spy, Varwitch ! your signal ! And the sound of the Gallitzin like A man who once licked your hand a bugle, a hundred thousand lancers will re- starved cur, and who now snaps at your spond with gladsome shouts, from Bothnia heels like the whelp that he is !' to the Azov— • is spy,' the prince. I fear he a mused ' Hush, Ruryk, you must not talk in this • Worse than a spy. I have seen him way,' interposed the prince ; but he could writing and working with pens and paper, not check the fiery language of the indignant about which dangerous weapons, thank and impetuous Cossack. Heaven, I know but just enough to print my ' I am not saying, my master, what nine name. Varwitch, it is said, could imitate tenths of the soldiers in the city are think- even the writing of your master, the Czar.' ing, if not saying, at this time.' ' I doubt it not, Ruryk. And where is Varwitch now?' Ruryk sprang to his feet, and raising his arm, he demanded, as if addressing ' Gone, General. He was too cunning and a throng: cowardly to remain. By Saint Peter I will ' Is the hero oi the Belkans to be treated come even with him, or I wear not a sword!' like a dog, at the instigation of spies 1 Are ' You must keep calm, Ruryk ; I am in we, who followed him through the hell of the meshes of a plot, and only the greatest Plevna, and under his lead descended to the coolness and firmness on the part of myself very gates of Constantinople, to stand like and friends can keep me from ruin,' said the terror-stricken children, while our idol is prince, dejectedly. torn from us ? Not so ! for, by the blood of • ?' From ruin, my master all the Cossack dead, we are still men ! and • Aye, Ruryk ; from ruin.' though willing to endure individual wrong, The Cossack stepped back, and closing we shall strike back at him who aims a blow the door softly, again advanced and said, in at the last represensative of our Attamans !' a low, earnest tone : our kings ' ' Ruin can never come to the house of You mistake, Ruryk ; nothing is to be Gallitzin.' gained by revolt. The authorities have not • It has come to houses as great Ruryk.' yet laid a hand on me. If they should do ' There are none so great under the so, rest assured they have what to them is throne. Hear me, my master, nor believe good and sufficient reason. Fear not that I that it is my rash Cossack's blood that shall not come out right. I "will face the prompts my words.' Ruryk hesitated, and conspirators and prove my innocence. To the prince nodded for him to continue. fly from here, and even to openly revolt 4 From the barrick of the private to the against a wrong, is to acknowledge to the throne itself, all Saint Petersburg is debating world that I am, or have been, guilty of a the loyalty of Prince Gallitzin of Nav- dishonor. Believe this, Ruryk, and so tell gorod. The doubt is only in the eyes of the all my friends. Russia must be saved by envious —and noble.' our patience and self-denial, as she was by ' That I believe,' said the prince. our swot ds. My foes are the foes of my : : —a VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 49 ?' country. Hark 1 Was that a bugle ask- said the prince, thoughtfully ; then asking ed the prince. with some earnestness : But do you not Ruryk stepped to the window and repli- forget, my dear Countess, that you are ex- ed posing yourself to the very dangers from ' ?' Yes, General ; the bugle of Freehoff's which you would save Vladimeer and me Cossack battallion, sounding a halt.' • I think not of myself,' she answered, ?' ' Before my palace sadly. • They are surrounding the palace, Gene- ' Then we must consider for you. You ral. See,' said Ruryk, pointing to the street. know how, at this time, suspicion attaches The prince looked out and saw the horse- without cause. I ques'ion if even your men forming a cordon about the building. uncle would interfere in your behalf if he ' A guard of honor,' said the prince, with thought you did not favor his every act.' a sad smile. ' I have not tried to conceal my feelings ' True, your excellency, for from Captain from him ; and I propose to be more candid Freehoff down, there.isnot a man holding a in the future than in the past. If there were lance below there who would not lay down fewer dumb mouths there would be less his life for you if need be. But see, General muttered treason. I wish I were a man 1' a lady has descended from a sleigh— she said, almost fiercely. veiled ady, and she has been halted.' ' General, his excellency Count Kiseleff The prinbe looked in the direction pointed desires an audience,' said Ruryk, appearing out by Ruryk, and saw the Countess Alex- in military attitude at the door. andria, veiled as when she visited the Hotel ' Will you not enter another room until America. the count leaves ?' asked the prince. ' Hastily penciling a few words on a slip of No ! I desire him to see me hear. I paper, he bade Ruryk take it at once to will look at him, and make him feel more Captain Freehoff, who was then expostulat- than ever what utter contempt I have for ing with the lady. him 'she responded. Ruryk hurried down, and the captain Conduct the count hither,' said the read the words : prince. ' The lady is the Countess Alexandrina The count, in full uniform, and looking niece of General Gortschakoff more elated and consequental than usual, Gallitzin.' advanced into the centre of the room and The countess was admitted, and, under began his speech before he became aware of Ruryk's guidance, was at once conducted the lady's presence. into the presence of the prince. * Wladislas, Prince Gallitzin of Novgorod, 1 1 hastened hither,' said the countess, I am ordered by my imperial master, Alex- • hoping to get to you before the soldiers ander, Czar of all the Russias, to direct that reached the" palace. But though I did not you move not outside the limits of your succeed, it may not be too late for me to palace without further orders.' utter again my warning— to fly !' ' It is always my pleasure to obey the I have not yet been informed of my mis- orders of my master,' said the prince, with a ' deed,' replied the prince ; and as to the courteous bow. Cossacks, until their presence is explained I 4 Say to your imperial master,' said the must consider them a body-guard, more hon- countess, coming forward and piercing the orary than essential.' aid with her eyes, ' that I, the niece of the ' I heard the order given; they are not to great chancellor, pledge my life for Gallitzin restrain you, -^ut to watch your movements,' of Novgorod.' said the countess. A distinction without a difference,' he CHAPTER XXIII. * laughed, adding, in his calm way : I hope Vladimeer got away.' STRANGE VISITORS. ' I do not believe that he has even left the When Count Kiseleff saw the Countess city. I have a sleigh and the best horses at Alexandrina and heard her words, he was so his service; and Mr. Cushing had even more overwhelmed with confusion and jealousy, perfect arrangements, but he availed himself that he quite forgot what else he had to say! ofneither.' He coughed, stammered, walked backward, ' Yet he left in disguise.' and trippling on his trailing sword, he ' True ? but you know how impulsive he is. stumbled out of the room with a tremendous Should he be caught there can be but one clatter and not a particle of dignity. end.' ' There,' said the countess, as the aid dis- ' ?' Exile appeared, ' I think Count Kiseleff will not * No, General,' she gasped, 'death !' be in doubt as to my feelings—from this ' Well, there are worse things than death,' time on.' : ' ' 50 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. * Surely not ; but he will have more re; vail yourself of this most gracious, and 1 ever for his son than animosity toward me iay add scarcely warranted permission, will We do not hear nor fear the howling of th >e looked upon as a defiance of the author- wolf when the lion is roaring. I do not giv ties, and a corroboration of the charges now Kiseleff a thought.' nade against you. Arrest, trial and convic- ' Nor do you give your own safety ; tion must inevitably follow. If not for thought.' ourself, for the memory of your ancestors, ' I think of it continually, for life is dea hink of this. Gortschakoff. to me, for Elizabeth's sake. I cannot sav ' Who was the aid that gave you this it in the way my friends propose. That i iote?' asked the prince, folding the paper settled,' he said calmly, but with unmistak ind placing it in a portfolio. able firmness. ' Count Kiseleff, may it please your excel- ' As a noble you are right. I have been ency.' speaking as a woman, not as one who would ' Where is he now ? shrink from martyrdom. With the Ruloffs ' He awaits my return and your answer, and Gallitzin of Novgorod I cast my lot. at the entrance to the Prospr kt,' replied the From this day on, we shall be more than nan, shading his eyes and bowing. friends.' ' Say to the aid that Wladislas, Prince The beautiful girl threw her arms about Gallitzin of Novgorod, refuses to be insulted.' him, kissed him on both cheeks, and then, ' That is all, excellency.' with the veil drawn over her face, she ran ' That is more than enough. Here are down to the sleigh and was driven off. five roubles for bearing my answer back.' Alone again, the prince set about prepar- The man kissed the coin, and bowing and ing his house for his expected departure. muttering again, with that cringing servility Ruryk and his valet, Paul, helped him with that marks the ex-serf, he withdrew, and was his papers, and received instructions as to conducted to the street by Captain Freehoff. what they should do in the event of their In the shadow of the great portico the master's arrest. messenger stopped. Suddenly his stooped They were still working at midnight, when shoulders straightened, the head was raised Captain Freehoff knocked at the office door. proudly erect, a youthful fire came to the 4 A messenger from General Gortschakoff,' eyes, and the voice changed from harsh dis- said the captain when Ruryk admitted him. cord to music as he took the captain's hand • Conduct the messenger here at once,' re- and exclaimed plied the prince. ' He did not suspect me !' In response, Captain Freehoff led in a 'No; by my faith, Vladimeer, the disguise stout, heavily bearded man, dressed in a is perfect, and your acting wonderful,' said mixture of peasant and clerical garb. the captain, who, though a soldier, was yet ' as the reader will remember, the What ! does General Gortschakoff in- ace of trust such a man as you with a message to hearts at the first Nihilist meeting we have me?' demanded the prince, while the mes- recorded. senger stood bowing and waving his sheep- ' That note purports to come from Gort-— skin cap. schakoff. It asks General Gallitzin to fly ' ' Good advice,' interrupted the captain. It is but a note, excellency : here it is. ' It is not so intended ; at all events it is It was handed me by an aid ; and he gave me two roubles to carry it here.' The man wasted. The note was written, to my know- handed the note, and looked furtively up as ledge, by Varwitch. at the solicitation of the prince read. Kiseleff. If the general got through your line and I presume you would not see him?' (private.) — ' My eyesight is not good to night,' laugh- General: —Should you remain in Saint ed the captain. Petersburg, his majesty will be forced to If he got through your b'ne. it would be bring you to trial. The consequences vou to run into the lines of the gens-d'armes, ;an imagine. I have represented to him now watching every avenue.' !' your youth, noble; descent and brilliant ser- ' You amaze'me vices, ali of which he conceded; and I ' It is the truth, Captain. But I must be begged that you might be permitted to leave going. When and where can I see you Saint Petersburg, within the ext twenty- again ?' four hours, undisturbed. To this he agreed. ' I guard here until relieved to-morrow at Captain Freehoff has been privately instruc- noon.' ted to permit you to pass his guards. Should ' Who relieves you ?' 4 you need other aid, it will be furnished by After that hour Prince Gallitzin will be communicating the fact to Count Kiseleff, in the dungeon of the Exiles. Come to my through Captain Freehoff. A neglect to quarters after dark.' ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 51 With this understanding, Vladimeer Ru- ance are a mighty armor when suspicion loff suddently became a stiff, clumsy man, turns against the nobles.' past middle age ; his shoulders stooped, his He lapsed again into his slouching man- neck shortened, and he shambled off, a ver- ner, and reaching the sidewalk he went itable serf, with his big sheepskin cap pulled along with great rapidity, but never was he over his face. As he went down the middle tempted into the use of any gesture, step, or of the wide street a sleigh sped past, and look that was not perfectly consistent with reined in. the character he had assumed. ' !' Hello ! you, sirrah said Kiseleff, from He peered into the restaurants and public the back street. houses as he hurried on, and came to a hrdt ' I am getting back, excellency ; and faith- before an establishment brilliant in its fully have I performed my duty," said Vladi- illumination and in the crowds of officers and meer. advancing and bowing, with his eyes civil dignitaries within. on the ground. He entered, and taking a seat in a shadowy ' What answer?' corner, where he could hear the groups talk- ' The answer is, * Wladislas, Prince Gal- ing in loud tones without being himself ' litzin, refuses to be insulted ?' observed, he ordered a plate of black soup, The count repeated the message and bit and pretending to be cooling it with the his lip. spoon and his breath, as is the habit of the ' Excellency, your servant lies not ; those peasant, but his ears were open to every were his words, and accompanied they were word. with much anger of manner." ' Too bad, said one. ' I would never have ?' * And the note—he t - it up thought it of the handsome, gallant Gallit- ' Of course, excellency ; for he was in zin. I saw him leading the charge at Plevna, truth angered.' and— ' ' So be it ; so be it.' Oh,' interrupted another, it is a case of Kiseleft drew up the robes, and was about love. He became blinded by the arrows of to settle back in the sleigh, when he stopped the gentle god and forgot himself.' and surveyed his messenger for some sec- ' Love ?' repeated the officer who was going onds. to tell about the charge at Plevna. ' Where come you from ?' he asked. ' Yes. It is said that the general has loved ' I am, or was, till my wife died, a poor since his boyhood the beautiful Elizabeth, school teacher at Kief,' replied Vladimeer. daughter of the exiled Count Ruloff. He ' And what brought you to Saint Peters- could not associate with the sister without burg ?' meeting Vladimeer, and being impressed by ' To see my son, a corporal in Freehoff's that reckless but talented young gentleman's lancers, and to get employment, that I may Nihilistic notions. It is too bad.'' drag out my remaining years in usefulness ' Where is Vladimeer Ruloff now?' asked and comfort.' an artillery officer, puffing a line of smoke * You can read and write, and hold your directly at the peasant near by, and follow- tongue ?' ing it with his eyes. ' Excellent well, excellency.' ' He was captured, released by Gallitzin And Vladimeer cringed and scraped and without authority, and is now fleeing the bowed, and reached out as if he would seize country. See : here is a reward of ten the aristocratic hand and press it to his thousand roubles offered for his capture. It bearded lips. is impossible that he can escape.' 4 Here, call at this address to-morrow The speaker drew the proclamation in morning before ten. If on further in- question from his pocket and read it through. quiry I find you deserving, I may do some- It was principally filled with a description thing for you.' of that fugitive, which, despite some inac- Kiseleff tossed him a card, and as the sleigh curacies, was highly complimentary to his dashed off he mused : manly beauty and fine accomplishments. ' I want a man who knows something and 'I knew Vladimeer Ruloff,' said a lieu- ' who is unknown here ; this boor may answer tenant of engineers. We were classmates ; my purpose.' and I must say his flight disappoints me. Vladimeer picked up the card, and for an I never thought he could fly a friend in dis- instant straightened up and held it aloft, tress. I could not think that he would save with an exultant glow in his eyes and a de- himself and leave his sick mother and nant wave of his arm. beautiful sister in the hands of the gen- ' I shall follow you, nor lay aside this good d'armes.' disguise till I have probed to the bottom of ' What ? Have they been again arrested ?' the villainy that has cursed my life. Ah ! asked the artillery man. ' the peasant's garb and the peasant's ignor- Yes, replied the engineer. ' Two hours 52 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. ago, against the protest of Mr. Cishing and Pushkeene, rising, and putting on his cap all the Americans in the city, they were an 1 great-coat. taken to the hospital of the Prison of the 'Don't run any risks for her; remember, Exiles.' my son, the good name of a merchant is better than the tarnished name of a noble. Oh, things are getting leveled very finely in- CHAPTER XXIV. deed, very finely.' And chuckling with pleas- HELEN RADOWSKY WOULD PAUSE, BUT CAN- ure at this thought, the old man went down to the pawnshop, the young NOT. and man went out of the house, as was his invariable rule, 'Why, Michael, Michael, my boy, what is after supper. this ?' asked old Pushkeene, peering through Michael Pushkeene's mission was to find his big, iron-rimmed spectacles at his son, Varwitch and Helen Radowsky, but, as he who sat at the opposite side of the supper went on, his thoughts were certainly not of table, in the little room over the pawnshop. a friendly nor trusting character. Not knowing what it was, the son seized ' I can see through her,' he reasoned. ' I the newspaper which his father held toward can see she is making a tool of that love- him, and read, among many paragraphs of a blind Varwitch, and she thinks she is making similar nature: a tool of me. Ha, ha ! She is going to ' Madam Ruloff and her daughter are in hand me over to the authorities just as soon the hospital, Prison of the Exiles. The as I cease to be useful to her. Funny that daughter, against whom there is as yet no we should both be playing the same game; very charge, elected to accompany her mother. funny indeed. She is moved by a spirit of It is believed in official circles that Vladi- revenge that must soon be gratified and ex- irieer Ruloff will be caught before twenty- hausted ; I am moved by a spirit of ambition four hours.' that is sleepless and undying. I can use my 1 Did you know that ?' asked the old man. knowledge, which, in this case, is truly 'I knew the mother was going to be ar- power, to ingrt tiate myself with the Czar. rested again, replied Michael, 'but I didn't I can strike a blow at Nihilism that will ring think the daughter would be so foolish. But through the empire and shatter the organiza- Eerhaps Elizabeth could not help it. She tion. Peasants have been ennobled and ad no home nor friends. What else could poor men given princely estates for less ser- she do ?' vice to the nation. Oh, I see my way up, ' Why, aint you her best friend ? up, up ! For my sake the beautiful Eliza- ' I am, father ; but she will not marry till beth will be again received in the society her troubles are past, and I do not see she once adorned ; and it may be that Mich- where I could care for her.' ael Pushkeene will have as proud a title to • Why, aint there your mother's room give her as that I helped tear from the crest back there, neat and trim as when she died ? of her father. Did not the ignorant, peas- Tell her she can have that ; and, Michael, if ant-born Catharine become an empress ? she was to accept our hospitality, I wouldn't Why should the coronet of a count be be- stop at hiring a servant—a medium-sized yond the reach of the cultured Pushkeene ?' servant,' said the old man, his sallow face Why, indeed ! The ambitious young man shining with the oil of generosity. saw no insuperable reason, nor is it our * I could get her here, I am pretty sure,' duty as a faithful chronicler of these stirring said Michael Pushkeene, looking contem- events, to interpose an objection. From platively at the sooty ceiling. Then bringing Fortune's magic wheel greater improbabili- his eyes down to his father's face, he added : ties have been evolved, and less competent • She'd pretend not to like it at first.' men have rushed, rocket-like, from lower * Would she, indeed ?' grunted the old depths to far more giddy elevations. man, comparing mentally his home with the As has been said, Helen Radowsky had gloomy Prison of the Exiles. many places where she could meet her fel- • Yes. The Countess Elizabeth Ruloff is low-conspirators besides her own home. In- of a romantic turn, and great as is her love deed it was a part of the tactics of the Nihil- for me, she would naturally contrast our ists to meet in places apparently the most pub- humble but happy abode, not with where lic Gertainly the best calculated to avert sus- she is now, but with the stately halls of her picion ; and they changed about so often that ancestors.' only the initiated, and only such of those as ' And that's what you call romance, eh ?' were constant attendants, could tell where ' That's one phase of it, father. But get a the next meeting would be. Like sharp woman to dust the room up a bit and make stones at the bottom of a stream, they most it cheery. I think we'll have the Countess agitated the water when in sight. Elizabeth here before long,' said Michael On the Little Neva, which is one of the —, VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 53 •city's arteries, there are a number of cave- ' Give the order, and I'll stand it,' said like wine vaults, resorted to in summer for Pushkeene, with a fine affectation of gal- their coolness and in winter for their heat, lantry and liberality. not to mention the fluids dealt out to parties The wine was brought in, and the glasses that for a trifle can control, for the evening, filled. Helen Radowsky was evidently a little side vault, of which there are many, stopped in the middle of a matter of import- all damp, close, and with a graveyard smell ance that she was communicating to the as- that the city sextons declare to be very pleas- sembly, for when quiet was again restored ant and home-like. she took up the thread of her opinion and To one of theso vaults Michael Pushkeene began speaking in those low, intense tones went, unconscious that a stout peasant with that struck against the side of the vault and a slouching gait, and wearing a sheep-skin came back in chilling echoes. cap, was keeping up with his hurried strides. Yes ; it does seem hard that Prince Gal- In the front of the vault was a bar, be- litzin should be sacrificed ; he is so brave, so fore which idle sailors and broad-shouldered noble, so handsome, everything calculated porters were drinking. to win the admiration of men and the love ' here ?' asked Any of my friends Push- of women, that it is natural to shrink from keene, addressing a man behind the bar, and contemplating the ruin hanging over and at the same time winking and turning up the about him to crush him. But his death corner of his mouth, in a way intended to his death will be a blow that will ring agreeable confidential, but the be quite and through Russia, and shake the throne, as if effect of which was positively ghoulish. the volcano on which it rests would break 'Back in the very furthest back vault,' out ; and it may— it may.' whispered the man retailing the wine ; and ' I must confess,' said an old man, who he, too, winked and turned up the corner of looked like a veteran '/onspirator, and spoke his mouth, and made a sound of sucking his in a cautious, piping voice, ' that I cannot teeth. Michael Pushkeene lit a cigar and see just how things are moving. There sauntered back in the direction of a gaslight must be trea on jn our ranks, else how that in the gloom seemed miles away. After comes it that Vladime ;r Ruloff is a fugitive turning and twisting among great hogsheads, ? I cannot see through it, unless there are rows of inverted bottles, and side vault* traitors in our ranks. In the days of Nichol- — like cells set in th-; walls of a subterran- as, the faithfd had but few traitors; we ean prison—Pushkeene came to what looked made short work of t em, I can tell you.' like the end of the passage. Here he kicked with his boot against the wall, and in re- ' He was impetuous,' said Varwitch. ' I sponse the deep, hoarse voice of Varwitch, think he was m re dangerous to us tha i he the authorities. I sounded as it it came up from the bottom of was to But was going to a very deep well, was heard demanding: say, that as we have i ade it a part of our 4 Who is there ?' plan to implicate the nobles, would it not be well to set a trap for his * I, Michael Pushkeene.' fussy excellency ?' Pushkeene, felt very certain he heard the Count Kiseleff same hoarse voice growling 'the devil !' by The suggestion was greeted with a shout way of comment, but not being a sensitive of laughter and the rapping of glasses en tl © soul, the ejaculation did not offend him. pine t ible. ' It can't be done,' said Pushkeene. ' The There was a grating sound ; the door, by a powerful push, was slid into the wall, and man is too shaip.' 1' a branch vault, twenty feet deep by ten in 'You think so, Michael width was reveaded. 1 I do, Varwitch.' As Pushkeene entered, the door closed be- Well, you are more innocent than I have hind him, and a murmur, that might be in thought. I could to-morrow, and without welcome or disapproval, ran from lip to lip manufacturing evidence, convict Count Kise- of the score of people seated about a table leff of a crime that w uld send him to Si- that occupied the centre of the vault. beria for bfe. I know he hopes to send me There were decanters and glasses on the there when he has finished using me, but I table, and one-third of the assembly was propose to keep of service to him.' composed of women—harsh-featured and ' As ycu did to General Gallitzin.' strong-minded, unless, indeed, Helen Ra- ' No, Pu-hkeene, nor as you did to Vladi- dowsky, who occupied the post of honor, meer Ruloff, but of genuine service,' sneered might be considered an exception to the first Varwitch, while Helen Radowsky's beaming peculiarly. eyes showed that she enjoyed the chance of ' Ah, Pushkeene, you are just in time to a conflict between her tool and her lover. have tne decanters filled up. Your credit is • By Saint Peter,' he co itinued, as h- filled food here,' laughed one of the men. up his glass, * I will initiate him, and have : —' : ; 51 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. him scizeH bv the c ns-d'arms, whom I will ' Aye, must ! that was the word I used/ start on the tiral of some one else.' he said, with a snaky glitter in his little 4 Betier, lar better,' ^aiu the vcieran con- black eyes. spirator, ' that we stick to our legitimate 'And if I refuse? she asked, shrugging purpose. Agitation, agitation, agitation; her shoulders and elevating her eye brows x ith now and then the destruction of a mon- pettishly. ster by a cool, strong hand. Know you n t ' You cannot refuse this,' he persisted. that Ghourko is recalled ?' ' To refuse would be to make you my bit- Helen Radowsky said she was aware of ter foe, eh, Michael ?' ' tne fact, and a keen-eyed woman of thirty by Draw your own conclusions ; but answer ?' her side, said spitelully : Will you help me ' Let him come back ; let dm return, and Helen stroked her low, broad forehead true as my name is Vera, there will speedily thoughtfully for some seconds, then looked be a vacancy in his office.' up with a sweet smile and said : 4 After an hour's talking in this way, Helen Yes, Doctor, I will help you ; direct me, Radowsky proposed that ' the sociable and I will help you.' should adjourn for the night, which was agreed to, with the amendment that all the wine—with a doubtful view to economy CHAPTER XXV. should first be drank. THE IMPENDING SWORD FALLS. The announcement could be heard on the opposite side of the door ; for as soon as it Prince Gallitzin remained up all night was made the old peasant, who had been finishing his report to the government and crouching with his ear pressed to the boards, setting in order his own private affairs. rose a d hobbled away. He stood on the ' Ruryk, who refused to leave him, de- street when the party came out ; and while claring he felt as if he never wanted to go to he did not ask for alms he wav d his sheep- bed again, said, after breakfast skin cap obsequiously, and made such other ' I am afraid, General, the wretches will overtures as led Helen Radowsky to be'ieve seize you to-day. he would not object to a gratuity, tor she ' And if thev should, Ruryk, what matters dropped a coin into his p-dm before going it to one who is innocent ?' asked the prince, off between Varwitch and Pushkeene. They looking with a sad smile into the troubled went to Helen Radowsky's house, and on eyes of his faithful follower. 1 ' the way her lover, by hints t at were rude By my faith, master ! it seems to be of and even coarse, tried to get rid of Push- no moment to you ; but for many hours I keene ; but that amb tious young tentleman have been thinking of myself,' said Ruryk. had a skin over his Jeelings that was quite ' Of yourself ?' • impervious to any verb 1 attack. Yes ; what is to become of me, should ?' * If,' he said, when they reached the house, death or the prison claim you ' you let me have a few minutes private con- There were tears in the Cossack's voice, versation with Miss Radowsky I will leave and his long, brown hands twitched ner- you at once.' vously. Without waiting for Varwitch's consent, • Have you not followed me into the har- Helen Radowsky drew Pushkeene to one side vest fields of death Ruryk ?' • and asked Aye, General ; many a time.' ' What is it ?' ' And had I fallen, would you not have re- • I want you to help me to release Eliza- joined your regiment, and fought on as gal- beth Ruloff, whispered Pushkeene. lantly as if I led ?' ' ' She is free to leave the prison.' No, General ! no ! Had you fallen as we 1 I know ; but I want to have her under crossed the Danube, the waves of that river my charge. Mv father will prepare apart- would have closed above my head. Had ments for her; and this will give me the you fallen at Plevna, there would have been longed-for opportunity to show my love.' no Ruryk to Dear you back. Had you gone ' In short, you want me to help ycu kid- down in the passes of the Balkans, the nap this beautiful girl ?' Moslem's fire would have freed my Cossack ' That is not the word ; she loves me.' soul, and I would have followed you to ' Then you can have no trouble in getting Heaven's gates, certain of admission if in her con ent to come under your protection,' your train !' The Cossack raised his hands, said Helen Radowsky. and eyes and voice were now filled with ' I have looked into the matter from all tears. * Master, the moment you Ap not !' sides. Helen, and I have come to the con- free I shall become a prisoner clusion that you must help me.' 'No, no, my faithful Ruryk; remain free ' Must !' she exclaimed. to uphold the good name of the house of ' ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 55 Gallitzin,' said the prince, now deeply affect- acts that to us are inexplicable, save on the ed by this evidence of devotion. ground of mental aberration.' ' Prince Gallitzin rose, Gorts- Ah ! if you too would will to remain free, and General a hundred thousand Cossacks would die be- chakoff nodded approval of the royal words. fore harm could befall you. But you choose ' If my acts have not met the approval of to submit— your majesty,' said the prince, ' it is gener- ' to attribute to mental To obey is ever the first duty of a ous them aberration ; soldier.' but as a noble and a soldier, I disclaim any ' freed the True, my master ; but the Cossacks say : desire to be from responsibility of ' Obedience, where the heart does no ap- my acts. Whatever I have done has been prove, is cowardice!' My father died while deliberately done. This I say, strong in the bearing your wounded father from a Cir- consciousness that I have done naught to cassian battle-field. The Cossack was true warrant the disapproval of your majesty, to his Attaman, but gave no thought to his naught that I would undo, naught that emperor. Blood is stronger than water, would not become a noble and a soldier of and the traditions of centuries are dearer the empire.' — 1 than the ukases of to-day What ! General Gallitzin, do you dare to A cough at the door interrupted the fiery intimate that we have summoned you into Cossack- Captain Freehoff stood in the en- our presence without good cause ?' said the trance with his hand to his hat. Czar, a shade of haughty anger in his voice. ' ' A message for me, Captain ?' asked the May Heaven forbid that my heart should prince. harbor such a thought against your majesty,' ' • A message, General, from our imperial the prince hastened to say. Adding : I but master the Czar,' replied the captain. speak from my own knowledge of my own •What is it?' acts. For one day I have been imprisoned ' I am ordered to conduct you at once to in my own palace ; and now I stand accused the Winter Palace, where his majesty awaits without a charge ; assailed without seeing to give you audience.' my assailants.' • To obey the Czar is ever a pleasure. The Czar turned to General Gortschakoff, said : Wait ; I will join you shortly.' and peremptorily Prince Gallitzin retired, and soon came ' Explain the charges against General Gal- back dressed in the resplendent uniform of a litzan, and name his accusers.' general of artillery. * The principal evidence, your majesty, is In the meantime Ruryk had ordered out in the handwriting of the prince, obtained the general's horse, and his own, and stood through one of his servants named Peter holding their bridles before the palace. Varwitch, and corroborated by one Helen The prince vaulted into the saddle. Ruryk Radowsky, a teacher of languages in the mounted and took an orderly's position to imperial family.' said General Gortschakoff. the rear. The Cossack trumpet rang out, ' What say you to those papers ? asked the the Cossack lances were upraised, and like Czar. a body-guard they followed the prince to the ' I have not seen them,' replied the prince, Winter Palace. On the way the soldiers on ' but if they contain one word that is treas- guard, or standing in groups on the street, onable, by any interpretation, or that would came to a salute. Citizens stopped and compromise me as a soldier and a noble, I raised their hats to the young hero ; and, pronounce them forgeries, and declare my- unmindful of the chilling blast, windows self to be the victim of a conspiracy.' were thrown open by fair hands, and hand- 'Conspiracy,' said the Czar, bitterly, 'is kerchiefs were waved in salutation. the plea of all the accused.' Then turning The Czar was in the small audience cham- again to the old chancellor, he said: ber, with a few attendants, and his great 'Question him touching the Ruloff mat- chancellor, Gortschakoff, when the prince ter.' entered, and advancing directly to the em- ' To the truth of that, your majesty, Prince peror's chair, bowed, and dropped on one Gallitzin has confessed.' knee. 1 Confessed !' repeated the Czar. The sad, troubled face of the ' Autocrat of ' Nay, pardon me, your majesy, not con- all the Russias' was paler and more trou- fessed; for that word would imply regret for bled than usual this morning ; but as his a criminal act. Certain that I have done no bluish-gray eyes looked at the young soldier wrong, I could make no confession.' at his feet an expression of undisguised ad- • Prince Gallitzin takes a fine diplomatic miration lit them up with an unusual glow. exception to the meaning of words,' said feeling He said, with a touch of in his voice : General Gortschakoff, with a cold smile. • Wladislas, Prince Gallitzin of Novgorod, ' It may be that I have not used the proper rise, for we would speak with you touching term. Acknowledged may be better than — 56 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. confessed. Prince Gallitzin acknowledged to from the imperial guard entered the cham" me that he liberated from the Prison of the ber. Exiles, and against the protests of the gover- ' Hand your sword to Count Kiseleff,' said nor, Madam Ruloff and her Nihilist son the Czar. Vladimeer.' The prince turned pale, but obeyed. ' Both of whom were imprisoned through Then, addr ssing the officer of the guard, my own error,' responded the prince. ' I the Czar continued : could not permit them to remain in a dun- ' General Gallitzin is a prisoner. Conduct geon, to which my own mistake confined him at once to the Prison of the Exiles, and them.' counsel the governor to guard him closely.' * Prince Gallitzin was appointed a chief of The officer bowed. The guard formed our secret police, but impatient of honors, about the prince, and on foot they took him he constitutes himself a judge, and assumes from the imperial palace to the dungeon of as a right the royal preorgative,' said the horrors. Czar, with unmistakable anger. 'If I have erred,' said the prince, proudly, CHAPTER XXVI. ' I, not the innocent Ruloffs, should suffer.' • I will say to your majesty, as an offset A SAD MEETING AND A SADDER PARTING. to the innocence of the Ruloffs, that Prince Madam Ruloff lay on a cot in the prison Gallitzin —who has been pleading tor the hospital, and by her side sat Elizabeth, hold- pardon ot the exiled coun' acknowledged ing the sick woman's hand and looking out of to me that he was still a frequent visitor to the low window at the court-yard, in which the disgraced family ; nay, more, that he the snow was melting under the spring sun, was betrothed to Elizabeth, sisier of Vladi- and through which soldiers and prison meer the Nihilist, for whose head it has officials were coming and going. pleased your majesty to offer ten thousand Madam Ruloff was sleeping, but the pain- roubles.' ed expression of her face, and the spasmodic In response to the Czar's angered, ques- working ot her hands showed that, even in tioning look, Prince Gallitzin, calmly, though sleep, she had not left her troubles behind, his cheeks were blazing and his eyes on fire, but was living over again the sufferings that said : shadowed her life. ' If this be a charge, I plead guilty. It is There were other cots in the room, all oc- true that I visited the Ruloffs ; true that cupied by women, many of them noble by Elizabeth Ruloff—against whom neither right of birth, and all ot them prisoners, slander nor conspiracy has yet dared to charged with the one crime of treason. utter a word or raise a hand is to be be- — From her position Elizabeth could look throthed. For this I have no excuse to up and across the court-yard, and see, like a offer. It may be well to remind your majesty giant pepperbox, the wall with its little, black that the houses of Ruloff and Gallitzin have iron-grated openings, through which light mixed their life currents on the battle-field, was admitted at times, into the gloomy cells. through the centuries of struggle that built Here and there she saw a bleached face, up the throne which your majesty adorns, with glassy eyes upturned to the far-ofl blue, and whom may Heaven protect. And at and a bony hand clinging to the rusty bars. the altar, too, have those currents been All this she saw, and all the horror it im- united. The exiled count was my friend. plied she felt ; but the appalling scene did His daughter was the idol of my boyhood, not monopolize her thoughts. Where was and the pride of my maturer years. On mv Vladimeer ? How did the prince combat the return from the war I found the countess enemies who were hemming him in. and her children poor and friendless. Policy As if in answer to her question, suddenly might have prompted me to keep aloof; but there appeared before her eyes the form of the Gallitzins of Novgorod spurn policy when the prince surrounded by soldiers. At first it runs counter to the promptings of their she could not credit the evidence of her hearts. Yes, I freed the mother and brother senses. It was a realastic waking vision. of my betrothed wife. I have explained my She saw him stand and calmly survey the conduct, and stand ready to bear the royal prison walls. He turned and their eyes displeasure, should that act be disapproved.' met. ' It is disapproved,' said the Czar, stamp- It was no vision, but a gladsome reality. ing thrice on the floor. 'It is disapproved Surpressing the cry that rose to her lips, she c< utterance and ndemned as a treasonable ran to the door, opened it, before a hand that confirms the other charges.' could be interposed to stop her, and flew into The prince bowed and stepped back, at the court-yard. • 1' the same instant a captain and file of men Wladislas 1 Wladislas she cried, break- ! VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 67 ing through the line of astonished soldiers, had given expression to thoughts which the and throwing her arms about him. I ravest would not dare to utter. ' !' Elizabeth ! my own Elizabeth whisper- ' The governor awaits the prisoner,' said ed the prince, pushing the loosened golden the swarthy, hairy secretary, holding the hair from her beautiful pale face and kissing door open with one hand, and glaring like a her. savage beast at the prince and Elizabeth Ru- ' Come, come with me, and see where my loff. mother lies sick unto death ; a sight of you The prince folded his arms about her again light to will bring back the her eyes and and straining her to his breast, he whispered : ?' warm the sluggish blood in her veins 4 To God, to my darling, to Russia, I am sobbed Elizabeth. faithful unto death.' ' I cannot go now, dear one,' said the With an expression of heroic resolve on prince, turning away his face to hide his emo- her face, she stood in the court and watched tion. ' Soon I hope to see her. Soon, I trust till the prison door closed behind the prince all will be well.' and the soldiers. Then she returned to the At this moment the officer in command of hospital, and knelt beside the cot on which the guard came out of the reception room, her mother still slept. She clasped her and raising his hat to the prince, said : hands, and her lips were set with a firmness ' The governor of the prison is ready to that no words could strengthen. Her eyes assign you quarters.' were closed to earthly sights, !' that she might « Go, Elizabeth. May heaven protect you the better look unobstructed into the Eternal The prince kissed her again and took a step presence. Not a whisper, not a sigh escaped as if he should leave her. her. and yet to the hearer of prayers her ' !' • Tell me ! tell me she cried, are you supplications were more audible than the too, a prisoner ?' musical thunder of all earth's organs. ' Alas ! yes. But it will not be for long, Helen Radowsky saw the he answered. guards march- ing with the prince in their midst, She staggered back, with her hands clasp- and keep- ing out of sight for she dreaded the ed to her forehead, and would have fallen — eyes of the man she had ruined she had not the prince caught her. — followed the escort to the prison. Recovering, she turned with a fierce energy to the officer of the guard and said, with She stood in the arched entrance and saw the prince towering like tragic impetuosity : Saul above his fellows looking • Know you this man is that you are dar- and more than ever like a demi-god. ing to imprison ?' Her heart smote her, and she could have in ' General Gallitzin.' replied the officer, rushed and thrown herself at his feet, and saluting. ' But think not, my lady, that I am begged for pardon and mercy. A feeling in- doing one thing, in connection with this consistent with, but stronger to a fiery na- matter, that do*:s not cut me to the heart ture like hers, than revenge, possessed her. like a sword thrust.' She ci .id have placed his ,jot upon her 1 neck, at that Then how comes he here V moment, and died happy if he ' crushed her. loved hirr. By order of the Czar, my lady.' She ! Loved him! !' the truth flashed ' Bv order of the Czar she repeated slow- and on her like the light of ly. Then with the intensity of Medea before a terriole revelation. ' I will confess all ! He making her awful sacrifice, she raised her must not die ! J can white arms to the drooping sun and cried save him, for is not this my work ?' ' : this out And is the way Russia rewards Under the impulse she would have run in patriotism and valor ! And by sacrifices like at once, had not the unexpected appearance cling this Alexander hopes to to his rocking of Elizab th Rulofl checked her, as if an icy throne ! Oh, men of Russia, soldiers of the cold hand had seized her heart-strings and Imperial Guard, there is one greater than held her back. ! who now looks at ' beautiful is the Czar One down the How she ! How like an angel, first Gallitzin of Novgorod a prisoner—by with her blue eyes, yellow hair, and snowy of the Czar. Soldiers, look ! is in his order up at the skin She arms : his lips are press- faces in those barred windows. ed to hers. pale They He loves her ! he loves Elizabeth countrymen your brothers, Ruloff! Hark! that is are your ; con- his voice. How like signed to this living grave by a score of base music in its low, sad cadences. What ! Is tyrants ! Denied God's free air, which even she calling down imprecations on the Czar the dogs in the streets have in abundance, Bravely said! Noble words! Ah! the hot and dying 1 dying! dying 1 1 —By order of iron of tyranny has burned into her heart !' the Czar and lit there the fire of liberty that can never soldiers bit their lips and a wild light die ! See they are The ; parting. He is whisper- shone on their bronzed faces. The priestess ing his love!' Helen Radowsky took a step 58 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. forward, stopped fell and back with a groan, Gallitzin, he must turn over in his coffin in as the prison door closed. a paroxysm of joy,' said Pushkeene, with a She recovered and watched Elizabeth Ru- ghoulish leer. loff coing back, till watched her she disap- She gasped, as if trying to speak; but un- peared. able to make a reply, held down her head ?' ' Why should I hate that beautiful girl and effected indifference to her companion she asked herself; and to herself made till she came in front of her own house. ' : I answer Because am a fiend and she is an ' Well,' she said, with much of her old angel. Because my heart is fil ed with the manner, 'I suppose Doctor Pushkeene. will boiling lava of revenge and malice, and hers continue to honor me no further. I thank is pure as snow. Because— I hate her be- you for your gallant escort. Here I am cause she loves— because he loves her! Oh ! safe.' if I could have kept my vow and destroyed She made as if to go into the house, but without ever looking on him ! Oh! if I had he stepped before her and whispered : been never born, or been born without this When will you be ready to help me?' 4 heritage of hate ! It is too late to stop now, To help you ?' she repeated. late; too late ! Ruin, Too inevitable ruin, • Yes— to help me to the guardianship of impends over all who come in contact with the beautiful Elizabeth." ! ? me—Ah who was that What, you Pusk- ' I am ready now.' ! ?' keene Why play the dog by coming on me ' Now ?' unawares She asked, stopping and glanc- ' Yes ; but you must give me a plan, she ing at Michael Pushkeene till he turned a said. paler yellow with fear. My plan is this : She is still free to leave ' I have followed you and called to you, the prison. Varwitch can imitate Vladi- but you seemed so absorbed in yourself,' meer Ruloff's writing as easily as he did hkeene, ' that I whined Pu the only way Prince Gallitzin's—indeed, I have seen him could attract your attention was by laying do it to perfection. Get Varwitch to write my hand on your arm.' a note in Vladimeer's hand, which I will have ' to And why should you want to speak me conveyed to Elizabeth. Let it say he is still here- here on the street ?' she demanded, in the city, and ask for a meeting at this ad- drawing her dress aside with a gesture of dress. Pushkeene gave her one of his fath- indescribable contempt. ' er's cards, and added : Nothing must be ' I saw you and wanted to congratulate said about me or my father—that would be you on your splendid success. Galhtzin is in ruinous. When she comes there, veiled and prison, and he won't come out again till the alone, I will take the responsibility of man- ' day he walks between two files of lances to ex- aging the rest. What say you ? ecution. Oh, your present game is ever so Helen Radowsky hesitated, and looked up much better than striking him down with a at the snow thawing on the roof. dagger. course, will gala Of you wear a ' I will think about it,' she said. the the hero dress day handsome of the Balk- ' I want an answer now. I am not a child ans kneels on nis coffin. He won't have his to be treated in this way,' he said, angrily. eyes blindfolded. will insist looking 1 ?' He on Will you do it or not into the barrels of the rifles. ? Are you ready 'Yes, I will do it,' she said, with decision. !' Aim ! Fire ' Ah ! now you are youself again. I will Pushkeene threw up his arms, staggered, see you to night." And Michael Pushkeene closed his eyes, and by other expressive pan- raised his hat, twirled his cane, fcid walked tomine showed how the prince would act off with the light, brisk step of a successful when the fatal moment came. man. ' You are a monster !' she hissed. 'What ! A monster for admiring your work, CHAPTER XXVII. come, now, Miss Radowsky, if I am a mon- ster for going into ecstacy over this master- VLADIMEER SECURES AN APPOINTMENT. piece, what must the artist be that conceived and executed it ?' ' It was his own fault. I assure you he ' A demon !' she replied. alone is to blame, and whatever he may ' By Saint Peter, that sounds true, though suffer he will deserve. The Countess may I doubt if demons would feel complimented shake her head and bite her lips, yet what I if they heard the comparison. Why, Helen, say is true, said Count Kiseleff, addressing my father thinks you are the most wonder- the Countess Alexandrina, who stood with ful woman that ever lived, and he knows but him in the main salon of her uncVs palace. little of your doings. If your own father ' You differ from nine-tenths of the people knows — in his disembodied state—what you in Saint Petersburg,' she said. ' have done to avenge him on the house of Perhaps I do ; but, to tell you the truth. VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 59 I have never gone into ecstacies over Prince a bend so obsequious, that he could not Gallitzin.' have got lower without getting down on all ' 'No fours at the nobleman's feet. Others have, but I can see nothing that ' Ah, you again !' he has done that any one else might not 'Yes, excellency! I, your servant, your have done if in his shoes,' said the Count slave ; I kiss vour feet,' whined the peasant. lightly. ' You took my note to the governor of the ' In his shoes !' she repeated, with a curl Prison of the Exiles ?' asked the count. of the lip. ' It is impossible for you to im- ' Yes, excellency, I took it and he engaged ?' agine yourself so fortunately situated This me ; and I come to thank you,' said the cring- with a little laugh that the count rghtly con- ing peasant. ' ' ?' strued to be satirical. She continued : I He let you look into the hospital am told the prince was ordered by the Czar • Yes, excellency. Oh, I saw the hospital; to liand you his sword ?' strong is the prison attached thereto, and You were rightly informed. Hesurrend- mighty is the Czar.' ed his sword to me,' said the Count, with an ' You saw the Countess Ruloff and her air of pride that he would not have assumed daughter >' had he any conception of the honor it would ' Oh, yes excellency, I saw them. Sad is- have been to the soldier who forced the sur- the mother, and beautiful as the moonlight render of that sword in battle. on an ice field is the daughter.' 4 Pardon me, Count Kiseleff— Prince Gal- ' I do not care to hear you drivelling. litzin did not surrender his sword. He yield- You are sure you would know the daughter ed it at the bidding of the man in whose ser- again ?' ' vice he had worn it with such honor, and Anywhere, excellency, anywhere ; and you took it, as Ruryk the Cossack, or any after twe lapse of many years.' other orderly, might have taken his master's ' The secretary of the prison will know bridle or cloak. Though I must confess when the lady Elizabeth goes out, for she is that there is an honor reflected on the man free ; he has instructions to let vou follow who holds the weapon of such a soldier for her—' an instant.' ' Yes, excellency, yes.' ' I cannot debate with the Countess Alex- ' Hear me out, :og. You are to follow her, andria,' said Kiseleff, loftily. ' Some day I and mind that you do so faithfully, and let trust you may know me better, and respect me know where she goes, what she does, and, me more.' if possible, what she says.' As he turned to leave, the countess, who As he said this Count Kiseleff tossed the at heart despised him, and saw she might peasant a coin, mounted his horse, and rode be able to use him to defeat himself, called away with the dignity of a man who felt no to him. little pride in having been appointed that Pardon me, Count Kiseleff. It is the day assistant-chief of the secret police, under privilege of our sex—or rather, a character- the tyrant Ghourko. istic that exhibits itself by privilege, to Our readers having already learned to- speak without due thought. Let us at least look, under the admirable disguise and act- be friends, seeing that there is nothing to be ing of this peasant, for Vladimeer Ruloff. gained by being foes.' Watching the count out of sight, Vladi- Scarlet with excitment and joy at this meer hobbled down to a wine vault on the unexpected expression from the lips of the Little Neva, and going back to one of the woman he worshiped, the count turned back, side vaults he found Captain Freehoff and dropped on one knee, and taking her prof- Ruryk awaiting him. fered hand, pressed it reverently, if not pas- ' What news ?' asked the captain, after sionately, to his lips. Ruryk had closed the door, and, as a furth- 1 1 thank you for those words,' he whis- er precaution, stood with his back against pered. it. ' He rose and would have remained to say Good news ; glorious news,' replied Vladi- more, great as had been his haste before had meer. not a page entered with a message that call- ' Then my master is free !' cried Ruryk. ed the countess away. 'Not yet, Ruryk, not yet ; but he will be, Feeling very much happier and conse- as certainly as you stand against that door.' quently like a very much better man, Count Vladimeer then narrated his interview Kiseleff went down to where his orderly was with Kiseleff, as an introduction to his say- holding his horse. He was in the act of ing that he had been to the prison. mounting, when the old peasant with the ' I saw my mother, but she was too weak sheepskin cap and matted hair and beard to bear the shock, so I kept on acting, though approached him with gestures so abject and I thought my heart would burst, so intense ' €0 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. was my desire to throw my arms about her the iron hand of the other there lies no choice. and kiss her wasted face. I made myself For one I wish Russia were a thousand known to my sister.' leagues behind me, and my face turned to ' And how did she bear it V asked Captain the West,' said the captain, despondently. Freehoff. ' Nihilism is the outgrowth of a want ; wa •Like the heroine that she is. To-night I can hardly blame a people who were yester- go on duty as an extra watch. I am to have day slaves for trying to gain the favor of past charge ot the cell in which the prince is con- masters by becoming sycophants. Russia is fined, and Kiseleff desires me to get him to in a horrible state to-day, but could we re- speak, and if possible, to induce^him to vio- verse the order of things, and make masters late the prison discipline.' of the crawling herd, Russia would be a hell. 4 And what can be the object for that !' Oh, for a leader! Oh, for another Joshua to ' That was the question I asked myself, lead us through this desert ! A Washington Captain, and this is the answer I have given to guide us with great patience up to liberty?' myself. If the prince is reported against, by Vladimeer the meanest attendant— and Heaven alone and the captain— leaving the wine untasted talked until midnight knows how unutterably cruel and mean they — was pealed from the hundred steeples of Saint all are— he will be sent to the dark, damp Petersburg ; then they left the vault, cells far under ground, where the count, no each taking a separate way. doubt, hopes he will die before the trial comes off.' ' But, whispered Ruryk, bending forward CHAPTER XXVIII. in his earnestness,' you can release him at !' •once PREPARING FOR THE TRIAL. ' Not immediately, Ruryk, for he would not leave. We must wait till he is condemn- It could not have been chance on the part ed to death, as he soon will be — of the governor of the prison that led him 'Condemned to death!' cried the Cap- to assign Prince Gallitzin to the fated cell tain. which even the heartless officials grew to 1 Yes, that is the programme. We must look on as the grave of hope. liave all the arrangements for flight ready. ' From this cell,' said the turnkey, ' Count In this Mr. Cushing, the American, to whom Ruloff went to the mines ot Siberia. Here I have made myself known, will help me. Vladimeer the Nihilists was confined. He, But those are details that can be entered in- if living, is the only man that ever left here to hereafter." for freedom.' ' You are playing a desperate game,' said 'I thank you for your comforting informa- the captain. tion, my friend,' said the prince. ' Now, if ' True for I am a desperate man.' you will see that I have fresh air and pure Vladimeer rose, and with a suddenness that water I will not trouble you.' was positively startling to the others, he took The man went off, muttering that fresh air on the character of the old peasant, which and pure water were not down in the list of he had dropped for the moment. It was articles furnished to prisoners. And the particularly alarming to Ruryk's superstitious prince, weary in body, and at heart, and con- nature. fused in mind, lay down upon the hard bench, ' Here, Ruryk, here is Count Kiseleff's last with his cloak under his head. gratuity ; order some wine.' Assured of his own innocence, he felt no ' Heaven forbid that I should touch his sense of degradation in his humiliating po- gold,' said Ruryk, drawing back. sition ; but looking back on his services and 4 Nay,' laughed Vladimeer, ' it is now my sacrifices, his noble soul rose in revolt against gold, and was originally the Czar's in proof the ingratitude of crowned monarchs. of which it still bears an impress of his The lengthened day died out, as he could head.' see by the Stygian darkness that took the Reconsidering his resolution, Ruryk took place of the cold gray light in the cell. the coin and went for the wine. At times he dozed, but never for an instant After all had drank, Ruryk, now back in did he sleep ; for through the long, black Freehoff s company, bade Vladimeer and the hours he heard every step of the guards, the captain good nighj, and went to his quar- clanging of musket-butts in the stone pass- ters. ages, and the groaning and coughing of the 'Well, Captain,' said Vladimeer, when they slowly dying victims in adjoining cells. sat opposite, with the door closed, ' which is Another day came, and a similar night fol- the worst, the treason of Nihilism, or the lowed, and Prince Gallitzin, whose active tyranny of the Autocrat ?' life had been spent among men, began to feel • Between the infidelity of the one and that oppressive sense of loneliness that makes ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 61 solitary confinement so horrible, even the • And the sentence—have you heard it full glare of the sun. rumored what that will be ?' asked the prince He repeated aloud a few stanzas of a poem commposedly. learned in early childhood, but the strange 'Death ?' whispered Vladimeer. Bound of his own voice startled him, it seem- • I have looked into the death-angel's face ed so out of place in this abode of darkness, before, without blanching.' solitude and silence. ' There will be no need to do it now. Re- He was dozing again, as a weary soldier taining my position. I can make your escape dozes on a wintry picket post, when he heard from the prison certain. Ruryk and Captain the great key clanging in the lock, and saw Freehoff, with Mr. Cushing, will be ready to open. aid. ice is flowing the ponderous door swing The out of the Neva ; and ' Have you brought me water ?' asked the within a week steamers and ships will be prince. loading and unloading at Saint Petersburg. ' Aye, water and wine,' replied the watch- We can get you on board, and away, before man, partly closing the door behind him. you are missed from the prison.' ' ?' ' I want not the wire, though I thank you. And your mother and Elizabeth In the prison, as in the army, he can only do 'They are embraced in the plan. Hist! his duty who obey orders. The prison rules here comes the guard. Wringingthe prince's forbid wine,' said the prince. hand, Vladimeer laid a parcel containing ' The prison rules forbid many things that wine and a lew nutritious articles of food are right. The will of the Czar would place on the bench and hurried out, locking the me in one of those cells if I did not stoop to door after him. deceit to help myself and friends.' This was ' Late on your rounds,' said the sergeant whispered by the man, who had now advanc- of the guard, halting his men near the prince's ed and taken the cold hand of the prince. cell and addressing Vladimeer. • prince, Who—who are you?' asked the 'I'm new to the business ; it's my first recalling the voice, but unable to believe that night,' chuckled Vladimeer, now back in his its real owner was in truth before him. peasant character, ' but when I've got used 'Your friend unto death—Vladimeer Ru- to it, I'll be active, as younger men, I war- loff,' replied that young gentleman. rant you. In my village I once acted, for a Only the fine self possession and complete whole week, as bailiff to the Stanavoi, and mastery of his own feelings prevented the he paid me two roubles, and said I did well.' prince from giving a shout of mingled fear ' Ha, ha, ha, laughed the sergeant, and his and joy. As it was, he folded his arms about men—as in duty bound — laughed with him. j Vladimeer, and kissed his cheek as if he had ' Your village training will be of little use to been a brother. you here. They should put you to making Briefly but clearly Vladimeer explained fires and carrying out ashes, old man.' the manner in which he had vaulted, as it 1 The fire-making would be truly more were, into his present menial but most desir- congenial, while the weather continues cold; : I able position ; adding in conclusion but am a good servant, and obey my mas- 4 The whole credit is due to the Countess ter, doing faithfully the work he sets before Alexandrina, whose plan I am carrying out.' me,' said Vladimeer. !' ' ?' ' But you will be detected said the And who is your master prince. • His excellency Count Kiseleff, aid to his ' That I do not fear. My disguise is per- imperial majesty the Czar, and second chief fect, and I am fortunately able to act out my of the secret police. Fools call him the character. In this position I remain until , Czar's spy, but he is a good man and true, after the trial.' I'll warrant,' • Until after the trial ?' repeated the Vladimeer hobbled off on his round of the prince. cells, and the sergeant and his men went 'Yes. You do not know it begins to- away with an increased respect for the pro- morrow. tege of Count Kiseleff. ' I have not been informed about it. After making the rounds, Vladimeer went • It begins to morrow, and the conspirators, down to a great barrack-like roum, along the Helen Radowsky. Varwitch, Pushkeene, sides of which were tiers of bunks, in which and Count Kiseleff, have their condemnatory slept the turnkeys and watchmen. He could evidence so arranged that your escape is go to sleep, as the others not on duty had, if impossible— he desired, or he could wander about the in- 'You think so ?' terior court-yard, but could not go outside • Yes, to my sorrow ; and I but repeat the the prison without the consent of the govern- belief of your thousands of friends and ad- or, which was never given at night. Unin- mirers, and all who firmly believe in your viting as the gloomy court-yard was, he went innocence.' out, smoking a short pipe, and began walk- — 62 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. ing close to the building, with his hand rub- ed Vladimeer, bowing and ooncealing the bing against the stones. He kept on his way, letter in his breast. without being observed, till he came direct- ' Perhaps to-morrow for then the trial will ly under the hospital window that indicated be under way. You will be called on as a sister. the whereabouts of his mother and witness ; and on the stand you must produce Here he found a string hanging out, and this letter saying it was given you by Prince pulling it gently three times, an answering Gallitzin, who promised you a great reward signal came back. if you handed it unobserved to the name in Writing a few words on a slip of paper the address. Do you comprehend ?' on which he told his sister that he had seen ' Clearly, excellency, clearly.' Vladimeer that he well ' the prince and was — Do this well, and I will reward you with fastened it to the string and it was drawn a better place.' up. * I will deserve it. I kiss the ground on Soon the string came back with another which your excellency stands. Long may attached this took, and con- note ; Vladimeer you live, and long live the Czar.' tinuing his walk about the court, went back 1 Here, is a coin. Go drink my healthy, to the room, and read by the light of a dim then back to your post.. Do you hear me ?' lamp suspended from the ceiling : Kiseleff tossed the peasant a coin, and strode • Mother is no better. I have told her that away, with an expression of lordly contempt you are here, and her anxiety for your safety on his florid face. is telling against her. She invokes you to Vladimeer picked up the coin, and hobbled fly while there is yet time, and with her I off, croaking his thanks and vowing his fi- join in imloring you to leave.' delity, with many cringing bows. ' Hello, old man ! reading a love letter, eh ?' asked a burly turnkey, looking out from the bunk. CHAPTER XXIX. • No,' growled Vladimeer, ' it's a bank note for a hundred roubles. I never light my THE TRIAL BEGINS. pipe with anything smaller.' And so saying Trials for political offences in Russia, he twisted up the note, stood on tiptoe and and particularly in Saint Petersburg, were of lit it at the lamp, and before his pipe was daily occurence, and consequently attracted going to his satisfaction, the last bit of the but little attention from any but the friends tell-tale paper was consumed. of the victims. But for once this indiffer- Early the next morning, by request of ence gave way to a deep general interest, Kiseleff, Vladimeer, under the name Count which might be said to excite the people of of Lushkine, was permitted to go into the the city, irrespective of rank, as the time for at once, reported to his bene- city, and he Prince Gallitzin's trial approached. factor.' In public, where the Czar's spies might 4 have seen Well, old man, you and talked overhear and report, comments were made with the prisoner ?' asked Kiseleff. with caution ; and the most warmly-disposed ' That have I, excellency,' said Vladimeer toward the young prince could only express bowed and cringed and swayed his arms till hope that a conspiracy would be proven on his sheepskin cap swept the floor. the trial. 1 What said he ?' In private, however, the officers in friend- ' Much excellency—very much.' ly groups at their clubs, the sailors bending • You dog ! tell me exactly what did he the sails to the liberated warships at Cron- say.' stadt, the merchants, with intimate friends, 1 He wished for writing paper that he or in the privacy of their own tamilies —yea, might send, by me, a note to the lady Eliza- the very maids of honor to her imperial beth Ruloff; but I could not provide it,' majesty the empress, spoke of Prince Gal- whined Vladimeer. litzin's arrest as an outrage that would react ' But you should have given him the paper,' on the government, and prophecied that an said Kiseleff angrily. adverse sentence would create a revolution • I feared the governor, excellency.' that all the power of the government would ' Here is the letter ; the count drew from be t< o weak to stem. his pocket a paper in the handwriting of It was the policy of the authorities to Prince Gallitzin. ' You see it is addressed treat the accused, whether noble or plebeian, to Elizabeth Ruloff?' the same before and after trial, but the ' Yes, excellency, yes.' courts before which offenders were arrainged ' Keep this letter, and mention not to a differed with the rank and standing of the soul that you have it till I call for it.' prisoner. ' And, when will that be, excellency ?' ask- The highest military court in the empire VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 63 was convened in one of those magnificent determined to see the trial through to the halls which so distinguish the great Admir- end. alty Building. If matters of greater interest did not con- The fair spring day was calculated to cern us, it might be profitable to describe bring out the great crowds that poured from the forms and ceremonies—as hollow and every quarter into the streets between the meaningless as they were glittering and im- Admirality and the Prison of the Exiles. pressive—that opened the proceedings. But it was not the beautiiul weather that The chief of the bureau of military justice kept them standing with anxious faces, and acted as judge and president of the court. speaking in frightened whispers, for the Twelve officers from the same tyrannical hours between sunrise and ten in the fore- establishment, "convened to convict," took noon. Throughout the whole distance near- the place of jurors—or rather the position ly ten miles— regiments of mounted Cossacks jurors would fill, if such a tribunal were al- and long lines of foot soldiers were drawn up, lowed in Russia. with here and there a light battery, to in- There was a small army of clerks, criers timidate the people; for Kiseleff had spread and guards, all in uniform, and all appar- the rumor, and it reached the ears of the ently fascinated by the tall, rale young man Czar, that the Nihilists would make an at- sitting alone in the centre of the court. tempt to rescue the prince. Between these The presiding officer coughed behind his lines of soldiers mounted aids flew up and hand till he grew purple in the face, but his down, showing themselves oft to the finest real object was to hide his own nervousness advantage, but having nothing else to do and attract attention. that the people could see. A chilling stillness suddenly fell upon the single At ten o'clock a gun was heard to assembly ; even the clerks stopped writing boom in the direction of the Prison of the that the scratching of their pens might not Exiles, and as the reverberation went rolling be heard. along the streets the sea of faces was turned There is no silence so profound as that in anxious expectation toward the point soifcttm hush of a human gathering in the from which the prisoner was to come. presence of death, or when the fate of a fel- Away in the distance the bright sun flash- low-mortal is to be decided. Each person ed on a forest of moving lances. Freehofi's present heard his own heart beat, and felt Cossacks came between the lines at a trot, very certain the sound must be distinctly escorting a plain, open carriage, in whi£h audible to those near by—every person bvK sat Prince Gallitzin, pale, but proudly erect. the calmly heroic man most deeply concern- ed in the object of the court. A hoarse murmur, like the angry sound 'The secretary of the board that often makes prelude to the tornado, ran convened to try Wladislas, Prince Gallitzin of along the crowd, and a savage light flashed Novgorod, a general of artillery in the service of from the angry eyes. Even the grim sol- our imperial master the Czar, and diers, many of whom had followed the late chief of the bureau of secret police, will young hero in battle, coughed to hide their read the charges against the accused,' said the emotion, or drew their braided sleeves ac- pre- siding officer, trying to ross their eyes. cough down a whole pond of frogs that would Apparently as unconscious of the battery come into his throat. of eyes as if he were riding through a desert An officer arose, and adjusting waste, the prince looked neither to the right his eye- glasses, began to read through what nor to the left, until the escort halted before seemed an interminable lot the granite steps of the Admiralty. of manuscript. There were twelve charges, and under each charge Here an officer appeared, and cpening the there were as many specifications. All these carriage door, touched his hat and said : charges pointed to treason against the Czar ; ' Prince Gallitzin will descend.' an unwarranted assumption of the royal prince sprang lightly The out, and im- prerogative infidelity ; to sacred trusts, and mediately he was surrounded by a body of an association with, and open sympathy for, gens-d'armes, with fixed bayonets. the traitors known as Nihilists. ' Forward !' commanded the officer, and When the reading was finished, and the with the prisoner in their midst, the soldiers secretary sat down, wiping his spectacles - moved up the steps and proceeded to the as if the protracted exercise had thrown great hall, where the greatest civil dignitaries them into a violent perspiration—the pre- the first soldiers of the and empire—all in siding officer said : resplendent uniforms their —were waiting for 'General Gallitzin, you have heard the the accused. charges and specifications against you. Rise tickets of admission The were at a premium, and make answer before this court of your the place was packed by and men and women countrymen, met to inquire into their truth, : —; 64 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. and do justice to you, as well as to our im- splendid record, the unmistakable evidences perial master the.Czar.' of high descent, and the indescribable The prince rose, and after the manner of magnetism that seemed to emanate from the Russian nobles making oath, he laid his man, thrilled and influenced every fibre of hand upon his heart, and in a clear, ringing her being. voice that, without being loud or defiant, This man, whose life she sought, whose could be heard distinctly in the farthest ruin she compassed, whose fame she was corner of the room, he said : about to blast, impressed her as a being • On my honor as a noble and a soldier I divine, and by contrast she felt herself to solemnly declare that I am innocent of all be a fiend. the charges and specifications I have heard She was seized, as Varwitch began his read, excepting that one which says I re- damning evidence, with an impulse to rush teased the Countess Ruloff and her son, into the centre of the court and, throwing Vladimeer; for this act my reason was good herself at the prince's feet, to proclaim his at the time; and failing to make you see it innocence and her own guilt. as I did, I stand ready to bear all the con- To restrain this impulse she set her teeth sequences of what, at most, is an error of and clung with a desperate teriacity to the judgment, and in which only prejudice can brass rail on which she leant. see a crime.' The deep, hoarse voice of Varwitch struck The prince bowed ; and the presiding offi- her like the beating of a muffled drum in a cer said funeral procession. She heard him telling ' The secretary will record the answer.' the infamous falsehoods —swearing away Then to the prince : that noble life that he might be rewarded by " General Gallitzin, it is your right to her hand. She had brought him under her select a member of the bureau ot military spell, schooled him to her work of vengeance, justice to aid you in your defence. and for what ? That she might destroy the • I waive my right,' replied the prince, man she now worshiped. * and will conduct my own defence.' As he looked about the court before re- CHAPTER XXX. suming his seat, he saw near by Helen Ra- dowsky, his traitorous servant Varwitch, IN CONSULTATION. and the sallow free of Michael Pushkeene. The first day's trial was over, and only >After an hour of tedious preliminaries the two witnesses—Varwitch and Pushkeene first witness was called. had been examined. ' Peter Varwitch will take the stand,' To avoid exciting the public, the prince shouted the chief crier, distinguished by was not taken back to the Prison ot the holding a white pole, on the top of which Exiles, but assigned quarters and placed was a gilt double-headed eagle, under guard in the Admiralty Building. ' Courage, Varwitch. Be cool, and do not So far as the evidence was known abroad, say to much,' whispered Helen Radowsky, there seemed to be a general and, it may be as Varwitch pushed his way nervously added, a saddening impression that it must through the crowd in the direction of the result fatally to the prisoner. witness-box. Varwitch found himself, for the first time, This was sensible advice, but Helen Ra- to be the most notorious man in the city dowsky did not look as if she could follow it and, as he passed along the streets, he heard when her turn came. Her face, usually men who did not know him speaking of him and rosy, was now pale and haggard as another who had plump ; Judas, betrayed his her dark eyes looked larger, and the viva- master for less than thirty pieces of silver. cious glance had given place to an expression Ah ! those people did not know the reward half fierce, half hunted. There was that for which Varwitch had sold his soul. desperate set to the thin lips whicn the At one time Peter Varwitch was a schoolar most daring assume in the presence of cer- and a gentleman, but he felt that he could tain death, or in the carrying out of a pur- never lay claim to the latter title again. The pose against which all the better nature is prince would certainly be convicted, and, in revolt. perhaps, executed, providing that his evi- Conspicuous as Varwitch suddenly be- dence was accepted ; but Varwitch felt that came, he did not succeed in drawing to him- he could not remain in Russia. As soon as self the battery of eyes fastened on the prince. the trial was over he would marry Helen But not one looked at him with such a fixed Radowsky and fly to a foreign land. He fascination as Helen Radowsky. was on his way to her house, and though The calm dignity of his bearing, the he- hitherto not addicted to excessive drinking, roic expression of his matchless face, the he stepped into a half dozen places and musical ring of his voice, the glory of his drank raw brandy each time. He felt : :: VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 65 better and stronger and braver for this. • I must see her,' said Varvitch. ' Tell her The liquor put a new life into him, and it is a matter of great importance to her and blinded him to the utter loss of his own self- to me. Go, Catharine, and tell her this.' respect. • And say,' called out Pushkeene, 'that I, ?' • Helen Hallo, Varwitch I Going to see too, am here to see her ladyship.' Varwitch heard Michael Pushkeene's The servant withdrew ; and coming back voice, and felt Michael Pushkeene's arm in a few minutes, conducted the visitors into through his. drawn the little sitting-room. Yes,' he growled, and made as if he would There was no fire on the hearth, and the cast off his fellow-conspirator, for he had a lamp, left by the girl on the mantel, looked feeling of horror for him. He forgot his as if it thought seriously of going out. own pergury in the thought of Pushkeene's The two men sat and crimet. He imagined his own wickedness watched each other, but neither felt like speaking ; to be dwarfed in comparison with that of indeed each felt that the other was an intruder, the oily, snaky man who did so much to and that, in addition, they hated swear away the young nobleman's life. each other cordially. • I, too, am going to see Helen, so let us Dressed in white, excepting a scarlet wrap go together.' Sticking to his side like a wound round her head and falling over her ' leech, Pushkeene continued : Ah, Peter shoulders—like fresh blood on a shroud Varwitch, you are a great man, a very great Helen Radowsky walked in slowly, and going' man. Every man, women, and child in to the mantel, rested thereon one of her Saint Petersburg is saying so to-night. white, perfectly-modeled arms, and surveyed When the prince cross-questioned you, and her visitors in silence. asked if you were not skillful in^ imitating Pushkeene was the first to speak. the writing of others you denied it boldly. • I come from Count Kiseleff. He asks to And what a grand hit you made when he to see you to-night in relation to the testi- asked you if you were not in sympathy with mony you are to give to-morrow/ the Nihilists. ' Like master like man, you • Tell Count Kiseleff I cannot see him to- ' be the servant cf night, for I sick replied. How could I am and weary ; this may General Gallitzin without being influenced prevent my giving in any testimony,' she re- by his views?' Ah, Varwitch, you drove plied, in a low pained voice. the nail home and clinched it. My testimony 1 Oh, that will never do. You must be on was as a spring zephyr compared to a tropi- hand if you have to be carried. You have cal tornado. \ And Pushkeene laughed, and planned the whole affair. Our testimony,' shook his black head, and tightly closed his Pushkeene waved his hand toward Varwitch 4 eves as if he found the greatest possible en- will kill the prince. Your testimony will joyment in his own conclusions. drive the last nail into his coffin. You lied worse than I did ! You lied Helen Radowsky gasped at this, and clung without a cause. I had a good reason for to the mantle to keep from falling. Suddenly what I said. Varwitch tottered and his she recovered self-command, and with much. voice became sepulchral in his earnestness. of her old manner, said • no. Varwitch you obeyed Helen ' I hope to be at No, ; Ra- the court. I will see the dowsky because she promised to become count early in the morning. I wish to her she promis- rest your wife ; I obeyed because to-night. You will now please to excuse to secure the woman I love. me, Doctor Pushkeene I ed to help me ; desire to have a Yesterday I expected, by means of the letter few words in private with Mr. Varwitch." you wrote for me in the hand of Vladimeer, After this there was nothing left for Push- to have met the beautiful Elizabeth at the keene but to leave, but before taking his humble abode of my sire ; but she came not departure he whispered —she gladdened not my eyes,' said Push- • Our plan did not work with Elizabeth keene, with affected sentimentality. Ruloff. I want you to help me again.' • well. You are a presumptuous dog ; a low-born •Very I rill see you to-morrow. cur of a mongrel breed, and barking in the Good night.' company of bloodhounds will not improve The moment the door closed behind Push- you. You'll be either muzzled by your keene Helen Radowskv sat down on a chair friends or hanged by the law ; and that very facing Varwitch, and in her low, intense soon,' grunted Varwitch, freeing hinrelf voice, said from Pushkeene and springing up the steps ' For our own safety, we must get rid of of Helen Radowsky's little house. that man at once !' ' My mistress is very weary and sick to- ' At once ?' rejoined Varwitch. night,' said the white-capped servant, half ' At once. We have no further use for opening the door and recognizing the visi- him. Every hour we delay places our own tors. lives in jeopardy." 6G VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. ' You think he contemplates betraying needed ! Say you will be true ! Pledge me us?' that will not consign to the gallows the man who given his manhood yea, his very ' has I am sure of it.' — !' droped on his 'Very well: I will care for him,' growled soul, to your service He Varwitch, savagely. So far his manner in- knees before her, and taking her white, pas- but on sive hand, he pressed it passionately to his dicated that he had been drinking ; into her the instant he became his dogged self, and bearded lips, and looked wistfully ' that you may not face : asked : Do you mean ?' ' rise !' she cried. ' I have testify again the prince Rise. Varwitch, ; have been too She looked at him for some seconds be- gone too far to turn back to falter. I fore replying, then answered with averted long steadfast in my purpose face: will appear and I will testify. 1 1 feel as if I would rather die.' roared. 'After you have 'What!' he CHAPTER XXXI. worked the case up to this point, to glut your are insatiate vengeance, do you mean you THE TRIAL CONTINUES AND VLADIMEER IS becoming frightened ?' injustice to I fear I have done a terrible Prince Gallitzin,' she replied, ' and I shrink Vladimeer, still secure in the perfection of from pressing him further.' his disguise, met Ruryk the Cossack early on ' he de- Helen Radowsky, are you insane ? the morning of the second day's trial ; their manded. rendezvous being the little wine vault before * No, but I have been. referred to. 1 have It is too late to reason so now 1 I The faithful Cossack was in very low become a perjurer, a forger, a traitor, and spirits and seemed to blame his master for have just pledged myself to become a mur- not having raised the standard of revolt as derer—at your bidding—whatever I am, I he had urged. became to show the intense fidelity of my ' I know the Cossacks, and have spoken mad love for you !' Varwitch rose to his with hundreds,' said Ruryk, ' and there is feet, and threw back his lion like beard and not one in the city, nor do I believe there is hair, while his eyes blazed with excitement. one in the empire, that would not sacrifice • There can be no regrets, no retracing now ! his life to rescue the prince. It is too late You must carry out the programme to the now; too late. But I shall share his fate.* do in sheer self-de- • do you mean, Ruryk ?' asked Vladi- end ! This you must How is fence, if you feel that your vengeance meer, deepby touched by the soldier's devo- appeased !' tion. 4 ' as In self-defence, Varwiteh V 1 am to be called a witness ; but why I • Aye, in self-defence. Break a link in the cannot imagine. I intend telling the judge chain of evidence we have forged against and court what I think of the empire from the Prince Gallitzin. and do you know what the Czar down.' the result will be ?' ' Then you will be arrested. 1 What ?' * I want to be.' ' ' The prince will be declared a victim of a And tried.' hellish conspiracy, and you and I, your tool, Yes.' with us, ' and all who have been associated And executed.' will be hanged like dogs. Nay more; I have sworn not to survive my master,' and from Nihilism will receive a death-blow ; said Ruryk. that broken chain the tyrant will fashion ' If die you must, better lose your life try- manacles for the people. Gallitzin of Nov- ing to free him. The students of the city intense for the purpose, and gorod is a noble of the nobles, an are organizing twenty adherent of the Czar, and a foe to liberty thousand civilians are ready to join us. and progress. What his father did for un- More than that number of troops, I am in- happy Poland—your land, Helen— the land formed, are ready to come over. We pro- where wrongs were heaped upon your house pose— should the prince be sentenced to —he would do for the freemen of Russia. death -to attack the palace the night before His death will kindle the fires of liberty and the day set for the execution, and seizing the spread disaffection, as did the charge against royal family, hold them till a free pardon be Count Ruloff. To save him by neglect or granted to the prince and to all—' confession is to crush our cause, and send 'By Saint Peter!' exclaimed the Cossack, you and me to ignominious graves! Oh, that is a grand scheme. Your excellency can love I bear you - command me, and all Captain Freehoff's Helen, Helen ! By the by the acts blindly done to show it—do not men, to the death.' vault, taking falter in this the hour when strength is They left the and different — VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. ' 67 directions, went to the Admiralty Building. mines. All his property was confiscated, For squares around. the streets were block- and his family thrown helpless on the world. citizens and soldiers, and the great She and her mother had to sew for bread ed with ; hall was even more crowded than on the her brother, falsely accused of treason, had previous day. lost his position in the school of mines ; and As the clock in the tower, near by, struck every hand extended to them with aid was ten, the criers began shouting for order, and looked on with suspicion. by the time the last stroke died out in a Calmy, but with a force that told on and resonant murmur the pained hush had again even thrilled the most hardened officer in come on the people. the court, she told how Prince Gallitzin, on Helen Radowsky, Varwitch and Pushkeene his return to St. Petersburg, sought out his sat in a little group not far from Count Kise- old friends in the garret, and there renewed, leff , whose florid face wore a look of triumph as a man, the engagement that had been and self-satisfaction. made as a boy. She told of her brother's 'Call Elizabeth Rulofl,' said the presiding arrest, and how her mother, the Countess officer. Ruloff, was seized for trying to enter her own The name was called three times, and the apartments, after going out to look for her crowd swayed in its anxiety to get a look at son. Bravely she upheld the honor of her the witness. own house ; and there was a convincing Elizabeth Ruloff—to the amazement of grandeur and power in her manner when, in court and spectators—was accompanied, to reply to the questions of the presiding near the witness chair, by her friend, the officer, she refuted the intimations that ever beautiful and audacious Countess Alexand- Prince Gallitzin, by word or act, in her hear- ria, the niece of the great Gortschakoff. As ing, did ought that was not becoming a pa- if to show her utter defiance and contempt triot, a noble, and a soldier. for her surroundings, the countess kissed As Helen Radowsky listened to this telling Elizabeth, and whispered, as so to be heard evidence, heard Elizabeth Ruloff confess her by hundreds, ' Courage, my sister, courage !' love for the prince, and frankly avow they Then she sat down beside Prince Gallitzin were betrothed, her whole manner changed. and shook his hand with a sympathetic The glow of involuntary admiration in her heartiness that brought tears to the eyes of eyes gave place to a glare of hate. Her many in the assembly. figure was still bent forward, but the attitude Elizabeth Ruloff was plainly attired in a was changed from one of attention to that of dress, wholly crouching for black devoid of ornament ; but a tigress a spring. * this fact only served to bring out more distinct- If he lives she will be his wife ! He loves ly the exquisite symmetry of her willowy form her, as she loves him. His eyes have burned f nd to rivet all eyes on the faultless beauty into my soul and withered it. His name has of her face. lustrous, horror of life ! The golden hair—in been the my Oh, Heaven ! oh, !' the plain Greek style that only becomes a Heaven ! I am going mad Grecian face—covered her Junolike head, Her thoughts were interrupted by the loud like the halo with which the old masters de- voice of the crier : lighted to cover the heads of their favorite ' Helen Radowsky will take the stand.' saints. Looking neither to the right, no*r the left, ' Merciful Heaven !' whispered Helen Ra- she went up and sat in the witness seat, dowsky, ' that woman is not of the earth with an air of unmistakable resolution. Bold she is an angel ! An angel of light and beauty, as she was, she did not dare to meet the !' and purity calm, dark eyes of the prince ; but she felt She drew her chair nearer, and, with her the dark eyes of the prince ; but she felt fingers interlocked, bent forward to catch them—felt them looking into her heart and every intonation of the low, musical terrible voice ; reading its secrets of passion, ven- to watch every shade of expression and wave geance, and purjury. of color playing like cloud shadows over the She wondered herself at her calmness, as face. the court and the audience at her story. She— Elizabeth Ruloff—had known the She tried to create the impression, and suc- prisoner, Prince Gallitzin, from her earliest ceeded, that Prince Gallitzin paid his ad- years. As children they were betrothed, for dresses to her. She told of her visit to his their fathers were friends. As she grew to palace ; of his driving her home ; of his c fil- womanhood she saw less of the prince. He ing to see her often, and of his leaving, on one travelled in foreign lands, and only returned occasion, the package of incendiary papers, when the war broke out with Turkey. Her which she exhibited to the court, and which father. Count Ruloff, had been falsely ac- powerfully corroborated the story Varwitch cused of treason, tried by a court convened had told the day before. convict, and banished to to the Siberian I When she had concluded her direct testi- 68 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. mony, the warmest adherents of the prince to the trial of Prince Gallitzin, and those felt his cause was lost. Without looking at that expressed any opinion about it were him she answered the questions of the prince compelled, against all private conviction, to in cross-examination. say he was guilty, and to hint that he She acknowledged she was the daughter had forfeited his life. Of course there was of the Polish Count Radowsky, but denied much that was complimentary about the that she had vowed vengeance against the prince's record, his accomplishments, his Gallitzins ; denied that she was a Nihilist, youth, and the antiquity of his illustrious and courted investigation ; denied the story family. of the dagger, but confessed the prince gave The papers hinted that Cupid had blind- her a weapon for her own protection ; and ed the prince of his duty, and strongly de- with dramatic effect, she drew it from the clared that Vladimeer Ruloff had taken ad- folds of her dress and held it up before the vantage of the prince's blindness to bring court. him to ruin. With this conceded fact as a The prince saw that his efforts to extort text, the papers denounced Vladimeer in un- the truth but reacted against himself, so he measured terms. He was ' a traitor to the ceased. country of his birth ;' ' An ingrate to the Count Kiseleff next gave in his testimony, friend he had deluded, then betrayed ;' ' A vague, suspicious, and damaging— all the coward who fled the country, leaving his more damaging for the frequent complimen- mother in prison, and his victim in the valley tary allusions to the prince. of the shadow of death.' All this and much ' Lushkine, a man whom I placed as a more was said in the papers ; all this watchman in the Prison of the Exiles, is here and much more was said by the people in the with a note which Prince Gallitzin asked him excited city. to convey to the lady Elizabeth Ruloff. I Vladimeer read this with a tingling cheek. have read the letter, and as it contains treas- Vladimeer heard this, and at times came onable utterances, it might be well for his near throwing off his disguise and announc- excellency the presiding judge to produce it ing himself ; but prudence led him to suffer in evidence.' out of sight, and to push forward his plans With this remark the crier shouted for beyond the keen of curious observation. • Lushkine 1' And as he did not answer at ' Of course, Count Kiseleff was furious once, all the cries began to shout for ' Lush- when the old peasant, somewhat under the kine 1" and to institute a search for the pea- influence of liquor, called on him that night. sant but he ; was nowhere to be found. The He threatened to imprison him. He rose to presiding judge growled; told Count Kiseleff strike him, but was deterred by a wild to punish the man, and to be sure and pro- gleam in the peasant's eyes, and the twitch- puce him on the morrow. In the meantime ing of his soiled but supple fingers about the he asked that Ruryk, the orderly of General handle of the knife in his belt. Gallitzin, be called. • Pardon, excellency, pardon. I met a man The orderly strode forward, anger in his from my village, during the noon recess of eyes, and defiance in every movement of his the court, and took a glass. I am not used tall figure* The prosecution hoped to prove to drinking ; it went to my head ; and I by him the intimacy of the prince with Vlad- thought it would be b tter for me to remain imeer Ruloff, but attempt failed at every away than to make a mistake. I will be on point. The blunt soldier felt he was fighting hand in the morning with a clean beard- for his master's life, and reckless of every- Trust me again, excellency, and forgive mo thing but what he thought would subserve this once.' that end, he kept on. The judge checked • You are a dog I' hissed the count. him ; the board maddened him by questions, ' Yes, I a dog. But trust again, until, in his anger, he rose and invoked all am me I will for you a great discovery.' * the Cossack's curse.' And that night Ruryk and make was a prisoner with his master. • A great discovery !' sneered the count. 1 Aye, excellency, a very great discovery,' CHAPTER XXXII. persisted the peasant. • What is it?' A STARTLING SITUATION. ' I can t- 11 you, within twenty-four hours, Russian newspapers are free to publish where Vladimeer the Nihilist is concealed. the news and make editoral comments on it • You can ?' —with this proviso, that the news be ap- ' Aye, that I can.' proved by the government censor, and the • Tell me now.' editorials be laudatory to the Czar, and in ' I would, excellency, but I know not. See, favor of all the acts of the authorities. is here a note written in his hand ; a man Of course, the journals gave much space gave it to me to cairy to the Countess Ru~ I VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 69 her son, I them, for, sure as you live, Ghourko is after loff. But supposing it was from them,' sa d the matter-of-fact American. first brought it to you, my master.' ' af'er ; that is, he The count snatched the paper from the But he cannot be me cannot be aware that I am still in Saint cringing peas nt's hand, nd read : Petersburg,' said Vladimeer. 'Courage, mother! I am yet in Saint • I must confess hat your disguise is Petersburg. Before long I shall announce about perfect. But be advised by me, and myself. Then th world shall know of the exile, and is don't trust to it. A bold course is the best.' plot that sent my father into now aiming at the life of Prince Galhtzin. This conversation, and much more of the We have friends working for us, working out same nature, occurred in a corner of the -of sight. So keep good heart.' public reception-room in the Hotel America. « And you were to give this to the Countess Vladimeer, as he rose to go, said—and he Ruloff ?' said the prince, after reading it over meant it— that he stood *eady to suffer, even if his friend for the third time. death, he could release ; and • Nay, excellency, to h-r daughter, for the then he hinted about the organization of countess,' replied Vladimeer. soldiers, students and citizens who were And where is the man who gave you the pledged to attempt the rescue of the prince. note.' ' It won't work,' said Mr. Cushing, retain- « in the morning. He I am to meet him ing Vladimeer' s hand at parting. 'Mark from village with whom I is the man my my words, it will be throwing away valuable drank to-day.' lives for nothing. He must escape by strata- softened at once on hearing The count gem, if he is convicted. Now be careful, and he gave Vladimeer a coin in token this ; and do not rush under your disguise.' ot complete forgiveness That Mr. Cushing's advice was sound • as soon as Bring your friend to me you Vladimeer soon had cause to know As he parting, ' and I will re- find him,' he said, on was on his way to lodgings—his duties at the gard him.' prison ! ceased when the prince was trans- • will bring him even I will, excellency. I ferred to the Admiralty BuiUings—he met Vladimeer, as he into ihe court,' chuckled Captain Freehoff, and obeying that officer's the coin. hobbled off, bowing over motion to follow him, he was led into a pri- That night Vladimeer called on Mr. vate room in the out-of-the-way eating- Cushing, the American, who, with char- house. acteristic energy and shrewdness, had set The captain closed the door, and shaking himsel about cleaning up the mystery that Vladimeei's hand again, he sank his voice to surrounded his friend Prince Gallitzin, and a whisper, and said : unveiling the plot of which he felt him to be ' It is fortunate—most fortunate—that I the victim. met you this evening.' In the mean time Mrs. Cushing and her Why, is there anything unusual up ?'ask- daughter, through the American minister's ed Vladimeer, his fears and curiosity excited intercession, had been enabled to visit Madam by his friend's manner. • Ruloff in the prison hospital, and to convey There is a great deal up ! Your disguise to her delicacies and medicines of which she has been seen through, and you must either stood much in need. change it or leave at once,' replied the cap- I tell you what, my young friend,' said tain. Mr. Cushing that evening, ' it's my candid • Who has discovered me ?' opinion that you ought to make a clean 1 Michael Pushkeene.' breast of your connection with the revo- • You are sure ?' ' lutionary element ; at least with that part I am certain. You know that I have of it that is nw attempting to ruin the not attended any meetings for some time, prince. This Helen Radowsky is head de- and I don't think I ever will again. This mon, and I know all about her meetings and evening—indeed, not twenty minutes ?go— her doings.' met a friend whom Mr. Cushing has placed ' You do !' exclaimed Vladimeer. on the track of Helen Radowsky. This man, • Of course I do. I gave her free rassage through Miss Radowsky's servant, whom he on one of my vessels from London, and I've succeeded in bribing, secreted himself under had an eye on her ever since. She's beauti- a lounge in the sitting-room, where Count eye, smart as lightning ful as a snake's and ; Kiseleff, Pushkeene, and Varwitch assembl- but, as I said, she's got the fiend in her, big ed with the mistress' of the house. He heard as Mount Washington in my country. Now, them going over their plans from beginning iuy opinion is, if she and her accomplices are to end, and heard the count say that Vladi- arrested, some one of them will make a con- meer Ruloff would soon be captured. In fession. My advice is for you to be ahead of proof of this he repeated an interview he had ' 70 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. — bly recovering himself, had with an old peasant in his employ confused ; but he Lushkine— walked up to the witness stand and said, as • I can explain all that," said Vladimeer, he sat down : eagerly, and he went on to tell of his inter- ' I was not aware that I was to be called.' vied with Kiseleff and the note he had show- ' I supposed,' said the presiding officer, ' with an obsequious bow that was in striking ed him. In explanation he said : 1 wished contrast treatment of the it to become known that Vladimeer Ruloff with his other did not fly like a craven coward from the witnesses, ' that your excellency came to city, but was here in defiance of the law." testify. Your excellency's name is pro- ' Kiseleff left, and the others remained minent in the charges.' talking. Suddenly Michael Pushkeene General Gortschakoff waved his hand to sprang up, and clapping his hands and indicate that he was ready to answer any questions that might be asked. shouting with laughter, cried : • '» In order to the presiding officer, T - ^ made atliscovery—a startling dis- prompt cover)' P Count Kiseleff took a seat near that function- • his floral face looked Wuat is it? asked the oth rs. ary ; and more than • ever self-satisfied complacent. We all know Vladimeer Ruloff is won- and Gortschakoff, with eviden feel- derful at di u e. My life to a kopek i tha General to the ing, told of his acquaintance with the grand- peasant be nu*. Ruloff ! Not a word count! We can get the prize that is offer- father and father of Prince Gailitzin. He ed, and, at the same time have him out of told how he had been delighted by the do- ings of the young soldier in the Balkans the way.' ^ how, when he returned to Saint Peters- • Those people,' continued Captain Free- and sent for him and with his hoff, ' are now after you, and the only way to burg, he own his commission as escape them is to keep in concealment or hands gavo-him general, change your disguise.' and by his-own efforts had him appointed to- police. • on me to the head of the secret I can do neither ; but depend avoid them. To-morrow morning I go to He, General Gortschakoff, was familiar the court and give in my evidence. Be there with the prince's writing. Through Var- witch he obtained of the incen- to hear me, Captain.' had many diary papers written in the prince's palace. He recognized the papers shown him as the CHAPTER XXXIII. ones he had seen. He could not credit them, until the prince confessed to him that he had, LAST DAY OF THE TRIAL. THE of his own volition and without any author- It was expected the trial would close this ity, released from the Prison of the Exiles day. It was generally believed the prince Madam Ruloff and her son Vladimeer, the fter a notorious Nihilist, and new a fugi- could make no defence ; and so well-known a were his services and reputation that, if he tive with a reward on his head. This one attempted to prove them, the court would act constituted a crime that it would be fatal concede their truth without witnesses. to permit to go unpunished, for it was a General Gortschakoff was there with his direct, a vicious interference with one of the his first great prerogatives ot the throne. beautiful niece ; for, despite disapproval of her recent conduct, her influence over him The old diplomat said nothing about his compliance with her efforts to have the prince wed his niece, was wonderful ; and in wishes he came. Seeing him in court, the though he did dwell at some length on the presiding offi er supposed he came to testify; young soldier's efforts to have the case of and knowing how valuable the great man's Count Ruloff reviewed, or a pardon granted. time was, he whispered to the chief crier to General Gortschakoff was about to step Gailitzin rose call him at once. down, when Prince and said : The chief crier elevated his voice and • Permit me to ask you a few questions.' General Gortschakoff bowed, folded his shouted : 1 His excellency Prince Gortschakoff will lank fingers, and looked — up at the ceiling. ?' take the stand.' 1 Do you know this m n Varwitch well I not,' replied the general. And, delighted at the thought of being able ; do to utter the great man's name aloud, and in 'Do you know that he is expert in imitating his hearing, the whole army of deputy criers the writings of any person, and every per- elevated their little white rods, on which son ?' the deformed eagles were uncomfortably • I do not.' « you know Count Kiseleff?' roosting, and shouted in chorus : Do ' ' His excellency Prince Gortschakoff will I do.' !' take the stand ' Is he an expert at imitating writing ?' The old diplomat was for a moment, visi- ' I do not know,' said General Gortscha- VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 71 koff, adding, with a laugh : ' But I should handwriting of the prisoner. I will place it say not, for he is credited with writing an before the board.' abominable hand.' ' Hold I'cned the witness. ' That letter Count Kiseleff laughed and blushed, as if goes not belorethe board !' this were a compliment. ' Why not ?' demanded the presiding • Do you remember everything you write?' officer. asked the prince. ' Because it is a forgery !' ' !' ' No, but I could not fail to recognize any- A forgery was repeated by the officers, thing I had ever written.' and whispered by the astonished people. ' • Is that your writing?' the prince handed Aye. a forgery ! Prince Gallitzin never him the note sent by Kiseleff the night be- saw that note.' 4 fore the arrest, asking him to fly from Saint Then how came you by it ?' Petersburg at once. * It was given to me by the Count Kise- Prince Gortschakoff read the note, and leff.' ' it !' then answered : I deny shouted Kiseleff, now beside ' I hoped you would fly ; but I positively himself with fear and rage. deny having written this note.' ' Let the witness tell his story. You can ' But it is in your handwriting.' contradict him afterwards,' said the presid- • I must confess it looks to be ; but I did ing officer. not write it.' ' Count Kiseleff.' continued the witness, • Nor order any one else to write it ?' ' asked me to furnish the prince with writing ' Emphatically, no." materials, but he would not use them. Then General Gortschakcff de«=o nded from the CounJ Kiseleff gave me this note, and paid stand, and Count Kiseleff b face became me to swear it had been written by Prince purple and his lips ashy. Gallitzin. It was written by Varwitch at !' ' Call Lushkine,' said the presiding the request of the count officer. ' Hold, sirrah !' shouted the presiding ' Lushkine !' was shouted with unusual officer. ' Who are you, madman, that dares vigor of !"ng, and the hundreds of people to make this charge against a Russian began to look around. noble ?' a tuaii uiih matted hair and beard rose, "I am that noble peer,' replied the wit- and throwing off a heavy cloak, which had ness, rising and standing proudly erect. so far partly concealed him, walked briskly ' This man is insane, or worse. Remove up to the stand. him, officers!' commanded the head of the He was sworn and asked his name. court. ' For the present I call myself Lushkine,' ' Hold, till you have seen who I am !' he replied, with an unmistakable peasant The outer vestments dropped off. The matted wig fell to accent. beard and the ground ; ?' ' You know Count Kiseleff and the youthful, soldierly figure of Vladi- ' I have been in his employ since the day meer Ruloff stood revealed to the court and before Prince Gallitzin's arrest. I was re- the vast assembly. commended to his favorable notice by the The amazing surprise, the suddeness of Countess Alexandrina, from whom I had the act, the startling transformation, and been asking aid.' the awful daring of this man, with a price ' He got you a position in the Prison of the set on his head, held the people breathless Exiles.* and spellbound for the moment. ' Yes, for a few days.' Prince Gortschakoff gasped and rubbed • ?' You saw Prince Gallitzin in his cell his eyes ; and the presiding officer began • Several times.' swallowing bushels of the largest sized • And he gave you a note to convey to the Adam's apples. Countess Ruloff, or her daughter?' As for Count Kiseleff, he could not have The witness hesitated, and the vast audi- collapsed more suddenly had he been struck ence bent forward to catch his answer. Helen by a bolt from heaven. In a few seconds Radowsky's eyes were devouring him, Var- mDre the court would have recovered from witch tugged at his beard nervously, and its surprise, but the fates and the Countess Pushkeene crouched as if about to spring Ale candrina willed it otherwise. forward. The brave girl sprang from her uncle's With maddening deliberation the witness side, and running to Vladimeer, she grasped fished up from an inside pocket a note, and his hand and pressed it to her lips. Then unfolding it, handed it, without a word, to turning to the court with fire in her grey the presiding officer. eyes, and the flush of dauntless heroism on This,' said the presiding officer, ' is filled her rounded cheek, she said, in tones of with treasonable utterances, and is in the thrilling music: ' 72 VLADIMEER. THE NIHILIST. ' What Vladimeer Ruloff says I stand gotten your foolish, childish attachment for ready to prove by my oath ! I saw Count Vladimeer Ruloft?" he asked, softening down Kiseleff give him that letter, and I read it as he looked at her fine, brave face. not five minutes after.' ' I have not. You might as well ask me • This is not evidence. The officers to be false to the memory of my dead mother will command order, shouted the pre- because my love for her was childish — siding officer pounding with his gavel to ' But Vladimeer Ruloff has forfeited his enforce order, for a murmur of applause, life, and before one week will be in a felon's that threatened to break into an uproar, ran grave.' through the assembly. ' And in that grave,' she responded, ' my The criers shouted and brandished their heart and my hope will be forever buried. staves ; and the countess resumed her seat You can control the empire, my uncle, and beside her now utterly astounded and be- fashion treaties between states —you have wildered uncle. studied such matters ; but when you attempt ' As first assistant to the chief of his ma- to dictate the affections of a woman's heart jesty's secret police, I call on the gens-d'- you are on foreign ground, where your armes to arrest at once the traitor Vladi- authority is a shadow and your efforts fu- meer, the Nihilist!' cried Count Kiseleff, tile.' now recovered sufficiently to command his * By all Saint Peter, if I were to draw you tongue. out, I doubt not I should find you aNihilist,' * I came here to surrender myself, and if growled the general, as he arose to leave the need be to die, in order to show to my mas- apartment, with the feeling of a man who ter, the Czar, the conspiracy that would rob was being beaten. him of the bravest, truest, noblest man in ' If Prince Gallitzin be a traitor, and the empire. Before you take me hence let Vladimeer Ruloff a Nihilist, I both am ; and me say that the key to that conspiracy is under the mild rulings of your master I now in strong hands. Let those who have should be in the Prison of the Exiles, and wronged my father—Count Ruloff the pa- not sheltered under the roof —screened by triot—and who would now make the Czar the wings of the all-powerful, and hitherto accessory to the murder of Prince Gallitzin, the all-good and wise— Prince Gortscha- confess before the revelation comes. For koff/ true as the Czar reigns over Russia, and a It would be downright treason to hear just God over all, the day of vengeance has more. General Gortschakoff hastened out, come !' and on his way to the room where he gave The soldiers now appeared and carried audiences he met Count Kiseleff. Vladimeer off. But so groat was the excite- ' What am I to do— what am I to do ?* ment that the court decided to shut out the cried the distracted count. * people and conclude the trial in secret. Do ! Why, face your accusers as an in- nocent man should,' replied. General Gorts- CHAPTER XXXIV. chakoff. DESPERATE DISEASES REQUIRIES DESPERATE ' But will the oath of Vladimeer, tba Nihilist, be taken as against me ?' REMEDIES. ' Until Vladimeer Ruloff is tried and con- It was not till he had reached his own victed of the crimes of which he is charged, palace that General Gortschakoff recovered his word is as good as that of any man in from his surprise and fully considered the Russia. He has outwitted you, and by his audacity of his niece's action. Then indig- amazing audacity placed you at a great dis- nation, anger, and something like humilia- advantage. A great pity the empire could tion possessed him. He sought out the not have the services of such a man. But countess in her apartments, and demanded as long as you are innocent, my dear Count, to know ' Why she had acted in this unusal you have nothing to fear, absolutely noth- and disgraceful manner ?' ing.' And General Gortschakoff bowed ' The terror of cruel laws and unjust himself away. edicts has made it unusual to oppose wrong Kiseleft But did fear ; Kiseleff was in an openly —and this is why the people organize agony of dread, and for the very reason that to oppose in secret. As to the disgrace, my he felt himself to be unutterably guilty, and uncle, I never before heard it was a disgrace that he well knew Vladimeer Ruloft had not to uphold siym heroic manhood as Vladi- uttered a word that was not the truth. But meer Ruloff has displayed, nor to unmask he was not so completely beside himself as such villanies as Count Kiseleff has shown to lose the power of thought and action. himsel. capable of,' replied the countess. Like all persons of his nature, danger and ' Your impulses have blinded you to the trouble but sharpened his wits, increased count. But tell me, have you not yet for- his cunning, and roused him to action. — ' VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 73 Ttiere was no moment to lose. Already and the proof he can brfhg is too strong to h:-> name was being unfavorably discussed be refuted by denial. Only his death can in the hovels and palaces of Saint Peters- save us, and even that must be accomplish- burg. If Vladimeer Ruloff were permitted ed at once.' to give in his evidence against him, ruin ' His death !' she mused. follow. deep in his heart ' Yes, his would Down he death ! Is his life any more invoked curses, the most awful, on the head precious than the Prince Gallitzin's ?' he of Via i neeer. He wished him dead and in asked. the infernal regions. • Nay, nay !' she exclaimed. ' The life of 4 Ah, if he were dead, I would be out of Prince Gallitzin is worth a thousand such !' danger.' ' Yet you, and you alone, have given over His fear and his anger blinded him, or he to death the prince to gratify your own re- would have seen that any one of his fellow- venge. Are you not ready to sacrifice a less conspirators might become, in an instant, as valuable life to save your own, and that of ?' dangerous as Vladimeer ; but, then, not one Varwitch and Pushkeene of his fellow-conspirators had been given 4 Pushkeene is a traitor. Varwitch has such evidence of the approval of the Coun- the blind fidelity of a Siberian mastiff. But tess Alexandrina, whom he loved and was tell me, how could this end be accomplish- still resolve I to win. As soon as it was safely dark, Count Kise- • I can have Varwitch admitted to Vladi- his form enveloped in a cloak, meer's cell leff, with in the garb of a black *priest.' started tor the residence of Helen Radowsky. ' Yes.' He found that remarkable young women in •Varwitch is a very strong man/ a state of white anger. She had just been • He is very strong,' she replied. notified that her services were no longer ' Then he can plunge a dagger into Vladi- needed as teacher to the imperial children, meer's heart, and secrete on the body a let- and in addition to this, a messenger had ter in Vladimeer's writing, showing a settled come from Ghourko, to tell her that she purpose to die by his own hands if arrested must leave Saint Petersburg within ten again— days. ' You are skillful in plots, Count Kiseleff. to To the count, who came invoke her aid Let me call Varwitch. Address yourself to in his own troubles, not to bestow sympathy, him.' this news was not encouraging. Yet he tried She went out and speedily came back with to appear cheerful ; and that assump- with Varwitch, whose face wore a heavy tion of influence that characterizes little men scowl, and whose breath smelled of brandy. he told her that he would have the order re- To him the count told his plan, and great once, and that he would see that voked at was his joy at feeiing his hand wrung, and at she was reinstatea in her position. hearing the deep, hoarse voice replying : ' nothing for the place, nor do I ' I care Lead me to the place at once, and I will wish to remain. Bat. whither can I go, with- do it !' out taking my crushed life with me !' There was a cry of mingled woe and wrath in her CHAPTER XXXV. voice, like that of a hunted animal at bay. BACK*IN • That is nonsense. You are young and PRISON. beautiful, talented and cultured — the world, Ruryk the Cossack had been held at the with fame and fortune, is before you,' he Admiralty Building until the arrest of Vla- said, coaxingly. dimeer Ruloff. They were taken together ' Did you come to comfort me ?' she ask- to the Prison of the Exiles, and would have «d, with a sneer. created a great excitement on the street had ' No ; I came to save you,' he answered. the people known of the event. ' Rather to save yourself.' They were placed in a close carriage, and ' Our interest are one, in this matter, and escorted by Freehoffs lancers. is but one way to avert there the danger The gallant captain of that gallant but one act that can save and free us.' decidedly rebellious body\managed during ' What is that ?' she asked. the ride to communicate with Vladimeer. ' of • The death Vladimeer Ruloff,' he whis- I am afraid you made a great mistake ' pered. said the captain, leaning over and speaking • is in the hands of " But he the authorities, in at the window. I cannot see that you and his death must follow,' she reasoned. have helped yourself, or friends." • True ; but to help us it must come at Perhaps not, Captain; and I question if once. I can guess well at all your doings in it was in my power to do it at once ; though the past, and this cool, desperate man will I have started the ball, mark my words them. knows of the next uncover He our relation, But greatest joy to helping one's ' ' ' ' 74 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. friends ie to strike down one's foes. If faithful Cossack's hand, and tried to give Kiseleff ever recovers from the blow I dealt him a hope that she could not give herself. him this day, I do not know the Russian The brave fellow was affected to tears. He people. But that blow was weak compared told the maiden he was ready to die for her with the one that is to follow,' replied Vla- and his master, whom he never expected to dimeer. see again. ' I hope you are right,' said the captain. The fifteen minutesgranted by the prison au- ' One thing is certain —you have given the thorities soon flew by, and the lie to your traducers and proved the jour- followed was indesrri bably sad. All the sad- nals defamers. All Saint Petersburg is der, indeed, for the heroic effort each made ringing with the praises of your skill and to suppress demonstrations and feign a calm- your daring. Even General Gortschakoff ness and hopefulness that was a bitter mock- acknowledged, on leaving the court, that ery. nothing more startling and thrillingly dra- But the heart bowed down by successive matic could be found in all the annals of burdens of woe does not feel the thrusts that Russia. The Grand Duke Alexis was pres- open old wounds, as it did the thrusts that left ent, and it is said he the place expres- first set those wounds to bleeding. There is sing, in his hearty sailor way, unbounded a limit set by a merciful Heaven to the ca- admiration for your daring. Keep good pacity for pleasure; and there is a point be- heart, and all may yet be well.' yond which even torture inflicts no pain; but ' I hope so. But tell me Captain, are not that point is only reached when the weary vic- Ruryk and myself your prisoners until you tim, becoming indifferent to life, strains his have turned us over, and recovered for our eyes to pierce the dissolving mists between precious bodies a receipt from the governor him and eterni'y. of the prison ? Vladimeer Kuloff again stood before the •You are,' replied the captain. swarthy secretary and watched him for the * Then you have the power to let me see second time writing down in the chained my mother and sister before I am taken to book his own decription. ? the cell ' They must go to one cell,' said the swar- * I will see that it is done,' answered the thy secretary,' the prison is nearly full. If captain, riding from the carriage to the head things go on as now, it will take ten such ' of the line. prisons to ne^t the demand ; and he looked The instant they entered the prison court as if he hoped the prisons would be erected, Captain Freehoff sought the governor, and and that one secretary might do the record' asked as a personal favor that Vladimeer ina for all. Ruloff and Ruryk be taken to the hospital The cell to which they were taken was on before going to their cells. the first floor, and had a little grated window, The governor gave a reluctant consent; through which one standing on tiptoe could he had not yet recovered from the offence look into the central court. given hy Prince Gallitzin when Vladimeer An extra bench was brought in, a loaf of and his5 mother were released. black bread and a pitcher of water furnished, Madam Ruloff was sitting on the edge of then the man, with the many keys in his belt, her cot, talking to Elizabeth and Mrs. Cush- locked the door and went off, whistling with ing when Vladimeer entered, the light-heartedness of one engaged in the At sight of him all sense of sickness and most congenial work. weakness vanished. With a heart-cry of To the credit of Ruryk the Cossack be said, ! 'Vladimeer, my son ! my son ' she sprang he gave no thought to himself. Had he forward, and was caught in his arms. been ordered out that night for execution, Through Mrs. Cushing, Madam Ruloff and he would still have been troubled for his her daughter had learned of Vladimeer's re- master; and next to him he seemed most arrest, and all the incidents preceding it. anxious for Vladimeer. And the good American lady tried to cheer ' Ah !' sighsd Ruryk. ' If the prince had them under the blow with the belief that it only taken my advice, he would be to day a was the very bes^ thing he could have done. greater man than the Czar, instead of being It would be a waste of words, if not some- on trial for his life. ' thing of a sacrilege, to attempt to describe I think he may be acquitted, ' said Vladi- the interview between Vladimeer and his meer, hoping to keep up the Cossaok's droop- mother and sister. It seemed at the mo- ing spirits. ment as it the vengeance of the Czar had •No, no sir! They have met to convict* imprisoned every one they held dear in the I have heard them speak. They say they world. must strike a blow at the liberal nobles. Madam Ruloff did not ignore Ruryk in Their first blow, like death's favorite tar- the excitement of the moment, but took the get, will be a shining mark. ' : VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 75 Impetuous though Vladimeer Ruloff seem- through the reception room into the court ed to his friends and foes, he was under all and through the vault-like arch to a waiting a cool, strong man, with an unbending will carriage. The instant he was in and the and a spirit that no oppression or suffering door closed, he took off his vestments and could daunt. He set about cheering up his burst into a loud, hoarse laugh, to the evi- companion, and with such success that dent annoyance of Count Kiseleff, who sat Ruryk became a changed being, and grew opposite. ( so hopeful and confidential that he told Vla- ' You have not told me what you did. dimeer of a little love affair of his own, and Speak, mar, this is no laughing matter,' said announced his intention to marry when his the count. master was again free and honored. It 'To you, no; to me, yes. I saw them, came out that the object of his affections told them the news, and left them papers to was Catharine, the white-capped waiting- prove it, and wine and food to comfort them. of his opinion, Ho, ho, ! maid Helen Radowsky. In ho ' And Varwitch held his sides Catharine was not only a young woman of and laughed again. Recovering himself he superi r physical graces and domestic ac- continued: 'The dagger! Why did we complishments, but she was cast in a self- think of such brutal butchery, when subtle sacrificing, heroic mould that would no . poison can do more effective work ? It takes have an opportunity to make itself manifest. Helen to refine all on our plans. Oh ! she had quite forgotten, in the earnest- is lerful They a won woman ! Earth never saw ness of their conversation, that they were in such an angel—of darkness. Satan himself a prison, when the key was heard to grate must be jealous of her resources.' in the lock, the door partly opened and the ' But did ihey eat ? did they eat or drink turnkey whispered in before left '? you " asked the count. . 'A priest of our holy church desires to ' No; they had net time.' speak with Vladimeer Ruloff.' ' But, you are sure they will ?' ' Show the man in,' replied Vladimeer. ' What ! Do you think they will neglect ' He wishes to see you alone.' white bread, cold fowl and wine, for black ' re are two of us here, s that is bread a:)d Th im- brakish water ! Only the monks possible, My Cossack friend will either go do that. They are eating now, and drinking to sleep or hear his counsel, as the priest the health of their unknown friend, the black chooses,' laughed Vladimeer Ruloff.' priest. Hurry on the horses! I, too, am The turnkey was heard to call to some thirsty. I must have brandy! Ah! work- one in the corridor, and in a few seconds a ing in blood makes one thirsty, and making short, stout man wearing the black serge others cold in death fills one with a fever. dress and his face covered by the cowl Drive i, and o drive on ! Take me to Helen !' hood of the monks of the Greek church, en- shouted Varwitch, with the phrensy of a tered the cell like a solidified shadow. madman. Vladimeer Ruloff and the Cossack rose and bowed to the priest. CHAPTER XXXVI. ' My children,' said the man, in a cautious SENTENCED. husky whisper, ' I will not detain you with religious counsel to-day. I come rather to Where one man s will—as in Russia—is your minister to physical wants. I am a law, trials are apt to be the merest farce; friend of the exiled Count Ruloff and of and a charge made at the instance of the Wladislas, Prince Gallitzin, whom may Czar is equivalent to a conviction. The case Heaven protect, for he has been — sentenced of Prince Gallitzin was no exception to the to death this night rule ; and no man knew better than he how ! • Sentenced to death ' exclaimed Doth, empty and meaningless was the h How mock- ' Aye ! so say t e people and the press. I ery of a court. But he was young and hope, have brought you papers, which you can ful, with every inducement to cling to life" read when daylight comes. Here they are, and, above^alli that strong assurance of his' folded about some wine and food.' own innocence, which he imagined would priest took the The parcel from within impress itself on the members of the board his dress and laid it on the bench. of m litary justice. ' Ask not my name. I am a friend, and It was midnight after the close of the trial, see you on the will morrow. See that my and the great hall in the Admirality Building kindly offices come not to the notice of the was illuminated, showing the officers were prison authorities, or it would go hard with still in session. me.' Wc rd had gone abroad that the board had The mysterious man shook hands with the found Prince Gallitzin guilty of all the prisoners, tapped on the door for the listen- charges and specifications, with a few minor ing turnkey, and went out. He passed exceptions ; and that they were reviewing the ' 76 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. evidence against VladimeerRuloff and Ruryk dered, and that at any moment a mesenger the Cossack, with the intention of sentencing might appear to summon him for sentence. all three at the same time. The clock in the Admirality tower boomed So swift is the execution of these sentences one, and the sound was still trembling in the that men have eaten their breakfasts peace- air, when the door of the prince's room open- fully, and without fear of danger, with their ed, and an officer, the secretary of the court, families, and before midnight have been on came in, with an open paper in his hands. the way to the Siberian mines. Taking a military position before the prince, he coughed nervously, said A court martial has frequently heard and ; charges made that day, and tried, and sen- • I am authorized to conduct your excel- tenced, and shot the accused before night. lency to the court.' * And you have reached a conclusion?' ' Prince Gallitzin will be sentenced to- The ' prince arose, and folding his papers on night!' ' When will he be executed ?' He which he had been writing, laid will have his choice to be hanged or shot!' them carefully away. ' He will die as fearless as he charged the — ' have, excellency ' The hesitat- Turkish batteries of Plevna !' These were a We man ed, and ceased his few of the whispered exclamations that ran embarrassment by another cough behind his hand. from lip to lip, as the awe-stricken crowd ' You have found against ?' looked up at the windows, facinated by what me ' have, excellency, was in their own minds rather than by any- We ' ?' thing that met their eyes. And I am summoned for sentence 4 Yes, excellency Groups of students met on the outskirts of ; and deeply do I deplore the crowds, and away from the observation it,' said the officer. I believe you, my friend. But my respect of the police ; and exchanging whispered re- for urt has increased. ports, vanished to meet at some other point thee You have prov- ed yourselves good soldiers by implicitly obey- When they could speak without being ob- ing your superior officers.' served by their officers, the mourned Cos- The prince's winning smile robbed his sacks and many of the foot soldiers spoke in sarcasm of his edge. As he went up through the hushed tones that soldier^ use when the guarded passages, the soldiers came to a creeping forward under cover of darkness to salute, and looked after him with that ex- surprise some stronghold. pression of adoration which soldiers and There was a feeling ot danger and trouble saints feel for the object of their worship. in the air, and men of the steadie. t habits ' Wladislas, Prince Gallitzin, or Novgorod sat up late that night, without being able to you will stand before the court,' said the pre- assign a cause for the singularity. siding officer, as the prince and his escort The restaurants and drinking shops were came into the solemn assembly. crowded, but there was not much eating, and The prince bowed, and advancing to near less drinking. The ringing laugh gave way where he had sat during the trial, held him- comments, and the hearty greeting to hushed self proudly erect ; but in his noble bearing was made manifest only by the tighter grip there was not a trace of blustering defiance. of the hand. ' We, the board appointed to try you on From cellers and garrets the ragged rabble the charges and specifications which were 'defiance swarmed out ; but their impudent read to you in this court, find you guilty of had given place to a morose silence, amount- all t e charges and not guilty on two speci- ing almost to dignity. fications, which we find foreign to the case. The sky was overcast ; and the wind swe p This is the verdict of all. ing.in from the Baltic and Bothnia, was lad- The presiding officer paused, and all tho en with rain-freighted clouds, against which members of the board coughed and nodded the illuminated clocks in palace and church their a; proval. towers burned like monstrous eyes. The ' It only now remains, to ask you, bef< re hourly tolling of the bells swept through sentence is passed, if you have any reason to the city with a muffled, funeral sound. offer against the justice of our findings, or At midnight the rain began to fall, but the any excuse that may tend to avert your it fate.' people on the streets did not heed ; rain and darkness seemed fitting accompaniments ' I have no reason tooffer that will be ac- to the awful solemnity with which all were ceptable to this board, or to our imperial filled. master the Czar, whom may heaven defend. Prince Gallitzin, pale and calm, sat writ- To all the charges, excepting that of releas- ing in the room to which he had bee i assign- ing innocent people, impris< n ;d through my ed. His hand was as steady and his pulse oversight, or through the forging ot my beat as strong and regular as if he did not name, as I now believe, I pleaded ' not guilty,' know the verdict of ' guilty,' had been ren- and gave my proofs, so far as this august ' ' VLAD1MEER, THE NIHILIST. 77 "body permitted me. I can render no excuse closing the door she laid her hand on his sentence, that will avert your for that is de- shoulder and dragged him into the sitting- cided on, and your asking me is a hollow room. adds not dignity ' form, that to this mockery Yes, Helen ! Yes, my love, my life ; try said the prince. of a trial,' some—you need it. Oh, there is nothing like • Vladimeer Ruloff. whom you released, has brandy to banish dull care— this night been convicted of treason by us, You are a cowardly !' | dog she cried ; and and we have sent for him and your orderly, this is the way you show your love for me, Ruryk, to receive sentence. You have all now that my life, is in danger, and I should been working secretly together.' be flying, under your protection, from the • Rulotf ?' asked And Madam the prince. city !' ' We have found nothing against her. She * Haven't I sold myself to satan to show is free. It only remains now for me to pass my love for you, Helen ? Didn't I commit sentence in due form.' two murders to-night, under the garb of a The presiding officer coughed again, then monk, to show my love ? Won't Prince Gal- sinking his voice to a tone oi fitting solem- litzin have his handsome body pierced by nity, he said : bullets to-morrow, just because I was deter- • Wladislas, Prince Gallitzin of Novgorod, mined to show my love ? Come, Helen, give you have been found guilty, by this honor- me one kiss to show your appreciation • able board, of treason, on twelve charges, just one kiss.' He reached out his arms, against our imperial master the Czar. It be- but, with a shudder, she drew back from comes my painful duty, therefore, to pass on him. sentence of death, to be executed you the to- ' Not now ; wait, wait ! Go get horses! morrow, the first day of June, at the hour of We must be flying. Go, Peter, if you love high noon. As a soldier and a citizen you me still : go, for we are betrayed 1' have the privilege of electing the mode of ex- 'Betrayed!' The word seemed to ecution. Choose, therefore, between the t sober him for the moment, halter and the musket.' and staring'into her « blanched face, he asked : has • It is comforting to know that this choice Who dared to betray us ?' is left me. A soldier never chose the halter, — ' My maid and and I am surprised that it is offered. I ask She hesitated, for she that the detail for my execution be selected, heard the noise of many feet without. not from my countryman the Russians, but ' And who ?' from the Warsaw- Legion of Polish Contin- ' And Michael Pushkeene !' gents. I desire this for two reasons; first, With a u phurous oith, Varwitch drew from a feeling of national pride ; and in the a pistol, and brandishing second place, the Pole is our foe, whether it aloft, swore he would shoot Pushkeene, the moment he conquered or not ; and to a conspiator from came in sight. that land I am indebted for my fate.. Let H irk ! the clatter of the countrymen of Helen Radowsky com- sabres and a thunder- ing, authoritative knock plete the work she has pushed through to the at the door. guards, death. The Varwitch ! Let us fly V She seized his wrist and dragged him into CHAPTER XXXVII. the hall, just as the door crashed down, and a swarm of THE PARTING BEFORE DEATH. soldiers, Pushkeene in 'their midst, rushed in. Count Kiseleff, let Varwitch out in front • There they are ! Seize them ! seize them I* of Helen Radowsky's house, and then drove cried Pushkeene but ; drawing back from the rapidly off, as if fearing to be seen in that glare of Var witch's eyes. suspected vicinity. ' You traitor and dog !' shouted Varwitch. Varwitch did not go into the house at once, • I will keep my oath.' drinking shop, but hastened to a and bought And before the soldiers could leap forward bottle of fiery, Hungarian brandy. to a He prevent, he raised his pistol and fired a large glass full and ; poured out drank it and Michael Pushkeene sprang forwar with down raw. He concealed the bottle, in his a bullet in his brain. pocket and ran back, muttering to himself For a moment Helen Radowsky fumbled insane man. like an at her breast, but as the officer in command Radowsky, dressed as if for Helen travel- approached, she became suddenly calm, and but with a cold glitter in her eyes, ing, and demanded to be told why she, a peaceful deathly, pallor on her cheeks, let him in. and a woman good citizen, was subjected to She was alone ; the white-capped maid this outrage. deserted her. ' had You are charged with Nihilism,' said the drinking again ?' she hissed, What and officer; 'and,' looking down at Push- : 78 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. keene's body, ' I can swear your friend Var- 'and so you, too, end your work in this witch will have to answer for murder.' place, to which you have cruelly sent the in- Shouting that he would never surrender, nocent.' Varwitch was speedily overpowered, bound, ' I come to prison under a mistake,' she gagged, and taken out to a waiting van. said, with a freezing laugh, ' but I will be Helen Radowsky followed, leaning on the free tomorrow. Do you know where you officer's arm, whicn she pressed, as if for are going ?• protection, and all the time she was pouring • To Siberia, perhaps,' said Vladimeer, into his ears, her low, musical protestations turning away. of innocence. Ha, ha, ha ! No such good fate. You are •To the Prison of the Exiles,' said the offi- going before the tribunal to hear the sentence cer ; and the escort moved on, with the pris- of death pronounced.' oners in their midst. Why didn't you take the poison ? I For hours after the aham priest left them, played the friend, after all !' roared Var Vladimeer Ruloff and Ruryk the Cossack sat witch ; and before the official could interfere in awful silence, neither able to give utter- he drew out the brandy bottle and drained ance to the feeling that oppressed him. the last drop. ' Let us hope that daylight will bring bet- Helen Radowsky did not wait to be ter news,' said Vladimeer at length. 'In the searched, but took everything from her poc- meantime it might be well to take such rest ket—money, gloves, and a lew trifles such as as this wretched place affords.' ladies carry. But when she was led to her He was about to lay down, when the parcel cell her white hand was clasped to her left by Varwitch came in his way. breast and her fingers were wound about the Oh, Ruryk ! here is the food and wine left jewelled hilt of the Gallitizin dagger. by our good friend the priest. Are you hungry ?' CHAPTER XXXVIII. ' ' No, sir,' replied Ruryk ; but after you have drank a sufficiency of the wine, I would LOOKING INTO THE FACE OF DEATH. not object to a little.' Vladimeer uncovered and uncorked the The dread tribunal was still in session bottle. He tasted it, and declaring it was when Vladimeer Ruloff and Ruryk the Cos- delicious, he raised the bottle, with the in- sack were ushered in. tention of taking along drink. The proceedings were brutel in their brief- Another instant and he would have swal- ness and more than barbarous in their lowed the fatal poison : but his hand drop- brusqueness. ped on hearing a knocking at the cell door, The meaningless questions were asked and the voice of the turnkey, as he fumbled Vladimeer, but not having heard the evi- at the bolts, calling out dence nor the charges, ke bravely scorned • Wake up, Wake up I An order has come the offer to make a defence that would avail to send you away ?' nothing. Vladimeer had secreted the bottle under He was a noble, and had been trained as the bench by the time the door opened and a soldier. He, too, was offered the choice the turnkey made his appearance. between the rope and the bullet, and chose ' Where are we to be sent to ?' he asked. the latter. One favor he asked, and it was • I know not,' replied the man. ' But granted—that he might be permitted to die there is n ed of haste. Come !' beside Prince Gallitzin. They entered the gloomy receiving-room The offence of Ruryk called for the knout from the prison just as the soldiers came in and imprisonment, but he stoutly maintain- from the court, with Helen Radowsy and ed that he was as guilty as his master, an 1 Varwitch in their midst. in his determination to share the prince's Had they been spirits, or the actual dead fate he hinted ai a great many—imaginary rising up before him, Varwitch could not —crimes that he had been guilty of again have been more horrified. He gasped, and and again. would have fallen had not a soldier caught He was taken at his word, and never a him. martyr heard sentence of dea^h with a feel- • Are you the dead ?' he asked, when they ing of greater exultation. Whether for con- came nearer. venience in guarding, or a feeling of human- Vladimeer did not speak to him, but ity — it could hardly have been the latter— Ruryk looked as if he could die ever so much the two condemned men were taken down to happier if he could fasten his iron hand on the room where the prince, with his habitual Var witch's throat for the fraction of a calmness, was writing his last letter on earth. minute. The prince sprang up and embraced ' Well, Helen Radowsky,' said Vladimeer, Vlalimeer, kissing him on both cheeks. ; VLADIMEER. THE NIHILIST, 79 and showing more emotion than he had were assigned a position where they c uld manifested during the whole trial. not wiftaess the fate of the last descendant ' Ah ! my master,' exclaimed Ruryk, after of their dethroned kings. he had pressed the prince's hand to his The streets were lined with gens-d'armes bearded lips and wet it with tears of aflection, the ranks growing heavier and more for- ' I told you I should be with you even in midable in the direction of the Admiralty death.' Building. ' That you did, my brave Ruryk. Well, Mounted officers, with anxious faces, gal- we have looked into the fleshless face too loped here and there, forgetting for the once often together to shrink back now,' said the that they were not exhibiting themselves to prince. the ladies in the windows. ' I will stilf be your orderly, my master, At ten o'clock the bell in the tower of even up there,' said the soldier, raising his Saint Peter's began to toll its strokes—one. eyes. two, three—coming every five minutes, as if ' Nay, my Ruryk, up there you will be my measureing the last seconds of the condemn- equal, the equal of all the kings who have ed men's lives. gone before, or who may come after.' A proclamation had been issued warning ' I would not be happy in such a heaven. the people against gathering in groups on Saint Peter would let me have my the streets, but for once the imperial edict own way. I would rather be the orderly, was openly set at defiance. on earth, of Prince Gallitzin, than first aid The three thousand students in the city to the Czar. Death cannot change me.' were on the streets, all in motion, here, sat down, They and Viadimeer surprised there, and everywhere, and evidently ob- the prince by telling him of the arrest of jects of great interest to the swarming police. Helen Radowsky and Varwitch, which he While all was painful tumult and uproar and of the saw ; death of Pushkeene, of on the street, the scene in the room where which he heard had the guards speak. the three condemned men were confined ' Deluded wretches !' said the prince, was deathlike in its calmness. ' their arrest comes too late to undo the Through General Gortschakoff, or rather wrong they have wrought. But let us trea- through his niece the Countess Alexandrina sure no hate against them at this hour.' permission was granted the friends of the Thev talked on until the rising sun of their prisoners to remain with them from ten last day shone in at the windows. o'clock in the morning until the hour when They had eaten breakfast whan the guard they were to be removed to the place of exe- opened the door, and Madam Ruloff, Eliza- cution. beth, the Countess Alexandrina, and Mrs. Pale, exhausted, and with an expression Cushing and her daughter Belle rushed in. of blank despair on her face—which it It was a sacred scene, which the guard would have been a mercy for the death- felt was not for his eyes, so he rested on his angel to have kissed away— the Countess musket, with his bronzed face turned to the Knloffsatby her son, his arm aL out her, window, where his tears could not be seen. and trying from his abundant courage to give They were admitted through the efforts of her strength. the Countess Alexandrina, that they might On the opposite side of Viadimeer sat the see and bid farewell to the condemned men Countess Alexandria, pale at the thought of for the last time on earth. her approaching loss : defiant against the The rain had ceased and the wind died cruel laws that were soon to rob her of her out, but still one black cloud, like a great idol. pall, hung over the imperial city of Saint The manner of Prince Gallitzin had not Petersburg. The rising sun shone out for a changed. He bore himself with that sweet few minutes, then veiled his face. dignity, and heroic fortitude, that so con- The commotion on the streets was greater spicuously distinguished all his acts. He than on the day before. sat holding the band of the beautiful Eliza- In addition to the troops regularly station- beth Ruloff, and talked in the calm, cheer- ed in the city, other regiments had been ful way so calculated to beget confidence. called in from the surrounding garrisons. But no rose came to her white cheeks, no On all the great streets artillery was plant- tear to her eye, no tremor to her cold hand. ed, and the caissons, filled with fixed am- She was turning to ice under the strokes of munition, and the fire buckets at the mouths that distant bell. Her heart beat slower of the brass pieces, told the people that ; this she seemed to be dying from the cruel bul- exhibition was not for idle parade. lets, before they were belched from the The rumor of disaffect-on in the Cossack guns at the breasts of her dear ones. ranks had reached the war office, and as a Mrs. Cushing and her daughter came as matter of precaution these fiery warriors general comforters, but with well-bred dis- 80 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. cretion they saw their efforts would be out ' General Gortschakoff s sympathy is ap- of place here, so they silently held them- preciated,' said the prince. selves apart. ' Will you,' he said coming back, ' give me Catharine, Helen Radowsky's white-cap- your hand at parting ?' ped maid, still white-capped, came in at the ' Willingly, for I treasure noillwill against eleventh hour, to the great delight of Ruryk, the highest or lowest subject in all his ma- who had been thinking about her all the jesty's realms,' said the prince, coming for- morning. ward and wringing the proffered hand. The chilling whispers in which conver- ' And you too, Vladimeer Ruloff?' sation had been carried on, stopped on the Vladimeer took his hand, and as he held it entrance of an officer, aid to the Czar. he said : 'I co i.e.' he said, removing his hat, * to ' If by thought or word I have erred, it say that General Gortschakoff desires to it was not because I hated Russia, for which speak with Prince Gallitzin.' I was ever ready to die; but because perjury, ' Admit him at once,' said the prince. conspiracy, and I will add tyranny, tore my ' But, your excellency, he would see you soldier father, Count Ruloff, from us, and in another apartment,' said the aid. sending him into exile, threw his family im- ' My respects to General Gortschakoff, poverished on the world.' but time is too short, my The few minutes To this the prince made no response, but left are precious to this me dear one,' he waving his hand at the room, went out. said, turning to Elizabeth Ruloff. He entered his waiting carriage and be- The aid withdrew, and soon after the tween lines of soldiers was whirled away to slow, shambling step of the old diplomat his palace. he descended could be heard. own As from the carriage, he looked up at a neighboring clock. He walked into the centre of the room, It was half-past eleven, and he shuddered as and looking only at the prince, he said : he thought the condemned would be on the I bear to General Gallitzin a message from way to execution within half an hour. our master the Czar. The old man's voice trembled. Down the street came the clatter of flying hoofs and a mass of shining lances. The prince rose, and made answer : ' • My mastei's messages are ever wel- Freehoff's Cossacks I' shouted the people, come.' on the sidewalks. I come,' continued General Gortscha- General Gortschakoff turned, just as Cap- koff,' authorized by his imperial majesty to tain Freehoff threw himself from his- horse. commute the sentence of you and your com- ' Hold ! hold, your excellency V cried the panions from death to exile, on one condi- captain. ?' tion.' ' What is it ' ' Name the conditions said the prince.' Miss Radowsky and Varwitch, now in 'That you will make and assign a confes- the Prison of the Exiles, have made a written sion of your pa«t misdeeds, that we may be confession of the plot to destroy Prince Gal- the better able to root out the people organiz- litzin. Here it is ;' the captain drew out a ed to destroy the government. roll of paper, and handing it to the old man, * ' Does General Gortschakoff come here to continued : They have also told where insult dying men ?' demanded the prince.' other papers could be found, particularly ' Such, I assure you, is not my purpose.' those on which the evidence was built up • Then bear back to his map sty, whom against Count Ruloff.' ' 1' general, may Heaven long spare, these my last Wh at cried the glancing over words. Wladislas Gallitzin, conscious of the papers. !' his own innocence, has no confession to ' It is the truth •Yes, yes. But. gracious Heaven, it may make. And he declines to lie, even to I !' ' save his own life.' be too late shouted the general. Away ' The prince speaks for me,' said Vladi- to the palace and announce my coming to instant. meer, feeling in his heart a twinge as he re- his majesty. Do not wait an I called his own secret indiscretions. will follow V !' ' let stop the execution * I go with my master,' joined in Ruryk. But, me 4 • I have accomplished my mission. I re- Away, I bid you 1 that is the royal pre- !' gret that it has not resulted in more good,' rogative said General Gortschakoff, turning to leave. With the alacrity of a young man, the gen- He stopped near the door and said, as if eral sprang into his carnage. • To the palace ! On like the wind ! To thinking aloud : !' ' It deeply grieves my heart that this the palace ! to the palace he shouted. should be the fate of the last of the Gallit- The people, seeing the flying carriage, sup- zins.' posed at first that the prince and his friends VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. 81 were escaping. But the Gortschakoff livery On, on, on. The crowd grows denser, and dispelled the pleasant illusion. the streets nearing the parade-ground nar- Reaching the palace, the old man got out, rower, and the gaunt, gray houses higher. and ran passed the guards. He stopped not The line stops. The band stops. A guarded by a grim soldier horseman presses his at the ante-room, way back ; and word withdrawn sword, but burst into the re- is passed from company to company to load. ception room. She students have barricaded the streets. ' Where is his majesty !' cried the general. The windows on each side are torn away as * his physician, if He retired by the advice of struck by lightning. Fresh a pel tu res in the and left orders not to be disturbed,' said the walls, and ten thousand rifles in the attendant. hands ot ten thousand men, half of them ! you v lue your life, Cossacks I i. u t see him As who have deserted their com- announce Prince Gortschakort at once.' mands, are brought to bear on the troops in Under the firm conviction that the general the;treet. had taken leave of his senses, the atten- The news of a revolt flies through the city, old dropped and the dant hurried off, and the man citizens, all secret I v armed, cheer, chair. and in wild torrents panting into a pour down ih i streets to In the meantime the hands of all the the poi t of attack, shouting witu fury: hitherto it had been ' !' ' clocks in the city flew— Gallitzin GalJitzin of Novgorod !' 'To their invariable habit to creep— to the hour the rescue of Vladimeer the Nihilist !' of high noon. Soldiers who blanched not before Turkish The artillery band, with their instruments guns turn pale now. draped in mourning, played a dirge at the A shot, a blow, would be the signal for a head of the rapidly forming line. The conflagration that all the power of the Czar prince's own regiment, with arms reversed, could not quench. went solemnly into position — left in front, The sound of flying hoofs, and Freehofl's as is the custom at military funerals. lancers dash after the procession, though the the Down the streets, the hush of crowd bugler at the captain's side is blowing a marking tl eir advance, came aconpany • halt !' with all his strength of lung. The of the Warsaw Legion of the Polish Con- captain urges his horse to the commanding tingent, the selected executioners, with their general's side, and whispers something that polished rifles carried at a ' right shoulder nas a most exhilarating eftect on that officer. shift.' He rises in his stirrups and shouts so that from ! of a gun the Hark The booming the mob can hear : parade ground, the signal for the advance, ' Prince Gallitzin and his friends, on fresh will come in five minutes. evidence, are found to be innocent! Our Unable to move, the Countess Ruloff has master, the Czar orders me back !' remained back with generous Mrs. Cushing Such a cheer as followed never was heard and her daughter. on the banks of the Neva; and it rolled along The condemned men have come out on the streets, a great wave of sound, and beat the great platform—Elizabeth clinging to the against the walls of the pala:e of the Czar. the Countess Alexandrina prince's arm ; The soldiers tossed up their caps in the line holding the hand of Vladimeer the Nihilist and caught ; them on their bayonets. The and Ruryk and* Catharine walking side by band tore off the crape from their instru- side. ments, as the line came to a ' right about What a sea of anxious, pain-marked faces! face,' and struck up ' See the Conquering What an awful stillness i How q iet even Hero Comes.' A hundred students took the the horses seem to staud. horses from General Gortschakoffs carriage, clock have touched The hands of the as that old man drove up, and unheeding his twelve, and the Titan strokes of a hundred prot< sta-ions, they pi iced therein the prince > that the hour has come. b 1 announce and Vladime* r Rul< ff, and mounting Ruryk kiss the brief, A few hurried words ; a ; on the box, ti.ey ttirted up the Russian suppressed cry of a women ; the unsuppress- hymn, the crowds along the sidewalk joining ed cry of the mob, like tortured wild beasts; in, and back they went to the Admiralty and the panting is over. The three men Building. walked firmly down. With hea ;s have In a short time the journals had their d step ; they take their erect, and measur extras flying through the streets, setting uace in the centre of the line. forth the conspiracy, and lauding Prince Forward!' blares the bugle at the head Gallitzin and Vladimeer Ruloff as fulsomely !' ' repeat of the line. Forward the officers as they had denounced them a short time aiong the line. The band strikes up the before. March in Saul;' awl the funeral pro- Dead T»he Countess Ruloff and all her friends— cession of living men is in motion. — — they were not many— were still at the Ad- — S2 VLADIMEER, THE NIHILIST. mi.i>ality Building. Elizabeth and the Coun termined to close her brief career by an at- t*ess Alexandnna were among the first to tempt at justice. hear the news ; and when, in response to Two days after the release of the prince the vociferous demands of the crowd, all and his friends, the papers stated that Helen showed themselves, and cheering was re- Radowsky was found dead in her cell with a newed ; and the bells started peaiing as if de- curiously wrought dagger buried in her termined at once to exhaust all their capa- breast. Prince Galliizm at once hastened city for sounds before they stopped. to the prison and discovered » it was her lather's dagger — the one he had given her. CHAPTER XXXIV. He had the body decently cared for, aud the fatal weapon buried with her. IN WHICH THE CURTAIN IS RUN DOWN AT Among her papers — written some time be- fore her arrest— was a sheet on which, with THE CLOSE OF THE LAST ACT. intf n<=e expression, she avowed her love for the man whose ru she was planning. A conspiracy is like a bubble— brilliant. n hj uie perfect, apparently clear and solid— but prick intercession of Prince Gallitzin and his friends, Varwitch's sentence it with the needle of truth, and whirl— there was commuted to life is nothing. imprisonment for ; but the night before he should have been sent off It breaks all over leaving no sign of the he was found to be dying, and in obedience to formation on which it was erected. his last request, Varwitch, in his confession, stated where he was buried in the same grave with papers could be found that would prove his Helen Radowsky. ability to imitate any handwriting he ever And now, what would be expected to fol- low stirring saw, and he told of a hundred cases where the many and trying events we have recorded ? First, is he had availed himself of this dangerous Count Ruloff back with his family,- restored to his honors, talent. He boldly avowed his opposition to and his estate restored to him ; but in this year the existing government, and prayed for its of grace, he prefers to live his speady downfall. More, he told of his 1879, with family in Fi reasons for taking service with Prince Gal- ance. Making a virtue of necessity, litzin, and how, under Helen Radowsky's a Prince Gortschakoff instructions, and the aid and countenance consented to the marriage of his niece with Vladimeer, of Count Kiseleff, he marked out the plan no longer called ' the Nihilist.' which, he believed, would destroy the prince. They, too, are living with Count Ruloff. He laid bare his part in the conspiracy Prince Gallitzin, the hero of our story, is against Count Ruloff, and showed that it still the hero and the idol of the was a part of the Nihilist scheme torturn the young soldiery of following Czar against the most trusted of his nobles. Russia. But the day his marriage, to the beautiful Elizabeth he The first result of this confession has been left Russia, and, at the present writing, is shown ; the second result was the immedi- travelling on the Pacific coast with his ate arrest of Count Kiseleff, who was sent friends the Cushings. It need not be added soon after to Siheria ; and the third result that Ruryk is with him, nor that the white- was to prove aR Varwitch's statements be- yond a doubt. capped servant has placed herself for life the faithful Cossack's protection. Anxious to remedy the grevious wrong he under And still within the wide realms of the Czar the had done, the Czar dispatched at once for revolutionary fires smoulder, and still other the return of Count Ruloff; and that gentle- man passed—near the Ural mountains tragedies are being enacted that must pass into oblivion. Count Kiseleff going in an opposite direction have attempted an actual picture of Varwitch made his confession in obedience We life, no desire to hold the to the request of Helen Radowsky. But Russian showing failings that undeniably exist how that unfortunate but remarkable young or the virtues on either side. While writers wrrte, and woman came to change at the eleventh hour exists so long, has never been learned. liberty is possible, and love in some form, the story of ' Vladimeer the In charity let us hope that her better Nihilist' wilP*be repeated. But never in the nature, glimpses of which we have seen, as- free land where this is written and read, and serted itself, and that, realizing that she had been betrayed as a Nihilist by Pnshke<-ne, e iided. and that conviction must fallow, she de- THE END. -A ROBERTSON'S POPULAR LIBRARIES. Robertson's Ten Cent Books. Robertson's Thirty Cent Books. MRS. JANE HIA1EAU D'OR—BY MARY J. Complete for ten MILDRED.-BY MARY HOLMES. 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